Monitoring group to support the utilisation of data and data economy

The Ministry of Transport and Communications has set up a working group to support and coordinate the work of different administrative branches in promoting the data economy. All ministries are involved in the group's work.

The working group is a body that facilitates cooperation and exchange of information between the Finnish ministries. It is also responsible for exerting influence at international and EU level. The aim is to attract international attention to Finland's view on the principles and development of the data economy.

"It is important that in the midst of the crisis, we also look to the future, and that Finland actively promotes the European data economy and digitalisation. Finnish expertise and European values provide a solid foundation for future steps. It is significant that we work together, across administrative branches," says Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka.

"The aim is to build the successful data economy in Finland and Europe around human-centred approach and the principle of impartiality. In order to achieve that we need to take into account individuals' rights and provide businesses with a fair operating environment," says Minister Harakka.

During Finland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union and coordinated by the Ministry of Transport and Communications, the topic of data economy was included in the European debate on the future.

During its Council Presidency, Finland prepared principles of data economy that are based on human-centred and European values. 

Guidelines on the principles of the data economy were prepared in broad international cooperation between ministries and stakeholders.

On 19 February 2020, the European Commission published the European Data Strategy - Shaping Europe's Digital Future. In its data policy work programme, the Commission also emphasises the role of data policy in the utilisation of artificial intelligence.

What are the next steps?

The task of the now appointed working group is to continue promoting the principles of the data economy.

The group's task is also to support the work on exerting influence on the EU.

In addition, the group will support different administrative sectors and organisations in the preparation of data economy and data utilisation projects and coordinate the preparatory work.

The group will also provide information about the development and impacts of the data economy.

The term of the working group will be from 1 March 2020 to 31 December 2020.

Inquiries:

Laura Vilkkonen, Director General, tel. +358 40 500 0817

Maria Rautavirta, Director of Unit, tel. +358 40 718 5975