We worked with the DEMOGRAPHY research programme to design and deliver the DEMOGRAPHY Academy, which provided experts from political parties, ministries and public organisations with a research-based understanding of demographic change ahead of the parliamentary elections.
Client: SRC DEMOGRAPHY Programme & FLUX Project
Project period: 2025–2026
The Strategic Research Council’s DEMOGRAPHY programme examines demographic change and develops research-based solutions to support policymaking. We worked with the programme to design and deliver the DEMOGRAPHY Academy, providing experts from political parties, ministries and public organisations with a comprehensive, research-based understanding of demographic change ahead of Finland’s 2027 parliamentary elections.
The sustainability of society is being challenged by demographic change
Finland is undergoing profound demographic change. The population is aging, birth rates remain low, and immigration is playing an increasingly important role in shaping the country’s future. These trends have far-reaching implications for people’s lives, the economy and the long-term sustainability of society.
Together with the DEMOGRAPHY Programme and the FLUX Project, we designed and delivered the DEMOGRAPHY Academy, bringing together around 20 experts from political parties, ministries and public organisations. The programme consisted of five in-person sessions and aimed to strengthen a comprehensive, long-term approach to population policy.
Demographic Change Requires a Shared Understanding
Population aging, declining birth rates, immigration, labour supply and social sustainability are closely interconnected. Preparing effective public policy therefore requires an understanding of how these issues influence one another.
The DEMOGRAPHY Academy provided a forum where researchers, policymakers and experts examined the key trends shaping Finland’s demographic future and explored solutions to long-term challenges. The programme covered the overall demographic outlook, population aging, low fertility and shrinking age cohorts, immigration, and the foundations of a comprehensive and long-term population policy.
Kaskas was responsible for designing the programme concept, refining the target audience, coordinating participant communications, briefing researchers, managing the practical arrangements and facilitating the sessions. We also produced the course handbook, production plan and session summaries, creating a foundation for further translating research into practical support for policymaking.
Ahead of Finland’s 2027 parliamentary elections, the DEMOGRAPHY Academy offered a unique platform for examining demographic issues as a shared strategic challenge that transcends administrative and political boundaries. The programme strengthened the dialogue between research and policymaking while making the latest demographic research more accessible to those preparing future policy decisions.
Turning Research into Decision-Making Support
As part of the project, we also supported the development of the DEMOGRAPHY Programme’s briefing package. The publication brings together the latest research on demographic change in Finland and its implications for wellbeing, public finances and the long-term sustainability of society. Kaskas helped make the briefing clearer, more accessible and more practical for civil servants and political parties preparing for the next government term.
“Kaskas has an excellent ability to run and facilitate events, which was reflected in the smooth and highly professional delivery of the programme. Their extensive network of contacts also proved extremely valuable throughout the project and brought significant added value to the Academy,” says Susan Kuivalainen, Programme Director of the DEMOGRAPHY Programme.
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