A recent national survey has revealed a dip in public confidence in Finland’s pension system, underscored by rising uncertainty and demographic divides. The findings follow a methodological shift from traditional phone interviews to an online panel, limiting direct comparison with previous years’ data.
According to the Finnish Centre for Pensions (ETK), which commissioned the study, the results paint a picture of growing apprehension, especially among women and younger respondents under 30, who expressed deeper concerns about their pension outlook.
“Uncertainty dominates the results,” stated Susan Kuivalainen, Head of Research at ETK, in a press release. “There are fewer strong opinions than before. Global political and economic instability, along with the ongoing debate on pension reform, may have influenced these assessments.”
While trust in the pension system has waned, the survey noted that around half of all respondents still expressed confidence in its long-term sustainability. However, a notable rise was seen in the number of people who held no clear opinion on the matter.
Reform Receives Cautious Approval
This year’s study was the first to gauge public sentiment on the new pension reform agreed upon in January. Under the reform, pension companies are now permitted to take on more investment risks, particularly by increasing their share of equities in pursuit of higher returns.
Public response to the reform was largely positive. Over 50 percent of those surveyed rated the changes at least somewhat favorably, while fewer than 10 percent responded critically.
ETK economist Sanna Tenhunen noted generational nuances in the feedback: “Older respondents were more often supportive of the reform. But even among those under 35, 45 percent rated the reform positively.”
As Finland’s pension system continues to evolve in response to economic shifts and demographic changes, ETK officials say future surveys will be key in understanding long-term public trust and adaptation to the reforms.
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