Strategic frameworks of THL's international activities
International cooperation plays a key role in the daily work of our experts. THL is engaged in wide-ranging research and development cooperation in social and health sector. THL also takes part in development of data resources in issues of strategic importance to Finland.
The institute's international activities are legally prescribed in a dedicated act of Parliament.
Our human resources strategy supports the THL's international dimension: THL encourages its experts to take part in international cooperation at all stages of their careers. International experts are welcome to work at THL.
We reinforce our international network by hosting dozens of visits by international experts annually and by organizing training.
THL supports the ministries in the field
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health is responsible for Finland's international collaboration and international commitments in the field. THL is an independent expert agency working under the Ministry.
The institute’s mission is to promote the welfare, health and safety of the population, to prevent diseases and social problems, and to develop the welfare society.
Our international activities comply with international agreements adopted by Finland, as well as with national guidelines issued especially by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health.
THL assists the Finnish ministries in international affairs by
- issuing statements
- making evaluations
- providing expertise.
THL also issues expert statements to members of the European Commission and the European Parliament, as well as monitors and influences international health and welfare policies.
In addition, THL performs several official duties related, for example, to statistics, registers and implementing the International Health Regulations.
We are committed to the Agenda 2030 – sustainable development goals and promote them by actively working in development cooperation in health and social welfare. We take part in exporting and importing expertise in the field, disseminate Finnish research evidence and development expertise abroad, and introduce international expertise into Finland.
