Sääntelykuten

Sääntelykuten is a Finnish term that translates to "regulatory duck" or "regulatory puppet" in English. It refers to an individual or entity that acts as a proxy or front for a larger, more influential entity to achieve specific regulatory outcomes. This can involve lobbying, influencing policy decisions, or shaping public opinion in a way that benefits the hidden principal. The term often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of genuine autonomy and a subservient role in the regulatory process.

The use of sääntelykuten can be a strategy to circumvent direct regulations or to obscure the true beneficiaries of certain policies. For example, an industry group might fund a seemingly independent consumer organization to advocate for deregulation, thereby creating a veneer of public interest. Similarly, a foreign entity might use a domestic front organization to influence local regulations without revealing its direct involvement. The effectiveness of a sääntelykuten relies on its ability to appear as an independent actor with its own motivations, even though its actions are ultimately guided by another party. Identifying and exposing sääntelykuten is crucial for maintaining transparency and fairness in regulatory processes.