Kansalaisilla

Kansalaisilla is a Finnish term that can function as a general phrase meaning “with the citizens” or “among the citizens.” When capitalized, Kansalaisilla is sometimes used as a name for civic initiatives, organizations, or campaigns that present themselves as representing or engaging citizens. It is not tied to a single, officially registered entity, but rather can be adopted as a label by various groups.

Linguistically, Kansalaisilla is the adessive plural form of kansalainen, meaning it denotes a relation to citizens rather than a specific noun subject. In ordinary Finnish, the adessive form signals location, involvement, or association, as in contexts describing activities or discussions that pertain to or involve citizens.

In public discourse, the phrase may appear in discussions about citizen participation, participatory democracy, or community consultations. It can appear in policy debates to emphasize voices from the citizenry or to frame initiatives as being driven by ordinary people rather than by elites. Because it functions as a common linguistic construction as well as a potential proper noun, its exact meaning is context-dependent.

There is no single official organization universally known as Kansalaisilla. Instead, the term can be used descriptively or as a brand by different groups across Finland that aim to highlight citizen involvement. Related concepts include kansalaiset (citizens), kansalaisyhteiskunta (civil society), and participatory democracy practices.