Työvoimahallinnon

Työvoimahallinto is the Finnish term for the public employment and labor market administration. It refers to the state system responsible for implementing government policies aimed at promoting employment, guiding job seekers, and supporting labor market activity. In practice the term is linked to the nationwide network of public employment services known as Työ- ja elinkeinotoimistot (TE offices) and their activities under the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment (TEM).

Organization and mandate

The TE services operate within the framework of the Finnish public sector and coordinate with other authorities, including Kela (the social security institution) for aspects of unemployment benefits and compensation. The core mandate of Työvoimahallinto is to facilitate employment and regional labor market development through a range of measures and services. This includes directing job-search support, career guidance, information on vacancies, activation measures, and access to training. It also covers programs that support employers, such as wage subsidies, apprenticeships, and other forms of labor market subsidies, as well as entrepreneurship assistance and start-up support.

Services and recipients

The services are targeted at jobseekers, laid-off workers, students and graduates, and employers seeking staff or labor market support. Residents often interact with TE offices or the TE-palvelut online portal, which provides vacancy listings, application pathways, and information on available programs and funding.

Modernization and status

Over the years Finland has modernized its public employment services by digitalizing access and consolidating service delivery at TE offices and through the TE-palvelut platform. While the term Työvoimahallinto is still used descriptively, the public-facing structure commonly referred to is the TE services under TEM, focused on connecting jobseekers with opportunities and supporting a dynamic labor market.