Sisäpolitiikka

Sisäpolitiikka (domestic policy) is the set of government actions and decisions aimed at addressing issues within a country’s borders. It encompasses the design, implementation, and evaluation of policies that affect the economy, society, and public administration, distinguishing it from foreign policy and security questions that concern international relations.

Domestic policy covers economic policy, welfare and social protection, education and health care, housing and labor markets, taxation and budgeting, infrastructure, energy and environment, justice and public safety, and immigration and integration.

Policy-making follows a cycle that typically includes agenda-setting, formulation, decision, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Governments use instruments such as legislation, regulation, taxation, spending, subsidies, grants, public procurement, and delivery of services through agencies. Political dynamics—coalitions, elections, interest groups, and administrative capacity—shape both content and timing of policies.

Key actors are the executive ministries, the legislature, regional and local authorities, courts, and independent agencies, along with employers, unions, civil society organizations, think tanks, and the media. Public opinion and international obligations, especially EU rules for member states, influence domestic policy through legitimacy and constraint.

In Finland, sisäpolitiikka is closely tied to the Nordic welfare model, emphasizing universal public services, income security, and equality. EU membership affects domestic policy through harmonization and funding, while national priorities focus on aging demographics, employment, education quality, housing, climate and energy transition, and regional development.