Former President Tarja Halonen has criticised the Finnish government’s cuts to NGO funding, warning that they could significantly weaken civil society. Her comments add a prominent political voice to a debate that has focused on how public funding changes may affect voluntary organisations and civic participation.

The concern centres on the role NGOs play in supporting communities, advocacy work and everyday services that often rely on public support. According to Yle News, Halonen said the planned cuts could have far-reaching consequences, even if the immediate budget savings are limited.