perusmerkinnöt

Perusmerkinnät are a type of social security benefit provided by the Finnish government to individuals who have worked and contributed to the social security system. The benefits are designed to ensure a minimum standard of living for citizens who have reached retirement age or are in need of financial support due to illness, disability, or unemployment.

The concept of perusmerkinnät is based on the idea of implementing a basic income guarantee for all citizens. In other words, the state ensures that everyone has a certain amount of money to live on, regardless of their employment status. This approach is often seen as a way to reduce income inequality and secure a more stable social fabric.

To be eligible for perusmerkinnät, an individual must have worked and paid social security contributions for a certain period of time. The specific criteria and requirements for receiving these benefits are set out by the Government of Finland and are subject to periodic review.

Perusmerkinnät are funded through a combination of employee and employer contributions to the social security system. The benefits themselves are administered by the KELA (Kansaneläkelaitos), the Finnish Centre for Pensions, which is responsible for managing the country's social security programs.

The introduction of perusmerkinnät has been the subject of ongoing debate and discussion in Finland, with some arguing that it would provide a more secure foundation for individuals and the wider community, while others have raised concerns about the potential impact on employment and economic growth. Despite these debates, perusmerkinnät remain an integral part of Finland's social security system.