Assumptions are not worth knowledge

Municipal shared resources must be spent on the basis of evidence, not assumptions — challenge candidates to explain what their claims are actually based on. As the municipal elections approach, we have begun to see — and will continue to see — the most varied proposals and ideas about what should be done in Kirkkonummi. Bringing different ideas to the fore and choosing the best of them is one of the finest aspects of democracy and a multi-party system. At the same time, it is important to remember that decisions in municipalities are about how shared money is used for the common good. In that context, it is of paramount importance that decisions are based on knowledge rather than assumptions.

What does a municipal decision-maker need to know?

With the municipal elections in mind, it is worth keeping a few nuggets of information in mind. Such as the fact that municipalities do not decide on the curriculum. Or that teachers are highly trained professionals in their field. As are early childhood education teachers. It is also worth remembering that high-quality early childhood education and teaching can bridge the gaps created by home circumstances. Or one of my favourite facts: that investment in libraries has a direct impact on the development of literacy.

It is also knowledge that many of the municipalities’ tasks are statutory — such as organising early childhood education and teaching. As a result, cuts to the state subsidies that municipalities receive are primarily visible elsewhere, such as in libraries, outdoor spaces and culture. Related to this is the knowledge that group sizes smaller than the statutory minimum, both in day-care centres and schools, promote learning but cost more. An interesting piece of information is also that in Espoo and Helsinki, huge day-care centres and large teaching groups frustrate many people.

A good nugget of knowledge is also that municipalities benefit financially from meeting their climate targets. Municipal Finance, from which municipalities borrow, offers cheaper loans to municipalities that reduce their emissions. Another spending-related fact is that physical inactivity and young people’s mental health problems cost society billions of euros each year, to say nothing of social exclusion.

Why is knowledge a better basis for decisions than assumption?

The list of various nuggets of knowledge could go on for a long time, but the essential point is that information on the vast majority of matters is available. The question is whether one takes the trouble to find it out. And whether one believes the information once found. When it comes to money — and especially shared money — that would be desirable. Because that money is used to resolve matters that affect each of our everyday lives.

I have written about evidence-based decision-making: on my vote for the Western Rail Link and on education as the municipality’s most important task .

Published in Kirkkonummen Sanomat on 12 February 2025.