vanhinneuvostojen
Vanhinneuvostojen, meaning "elders' councils" in Finnish, are traditional advisory bodies found in some Finnish communities, particularly in rural and Sami areas. These councils are not formal governmental institutions but rather informal groups of respected elders who offer their wisdom and experience to guide local decision-making. The composition and specific roles of vanhinneuvostojen can vary significantly from one community to another, often reflecting local customs and needs.
Historically, elders have always played a crucial role in Finnish society, providing guidance on everything from
The functions of vanhinneuvostojen are primarily advisory. They do not hold any executive power or make binding