Fireside chat: Europe thrives when citizens thrive

Sanna Marin, Former Prime Minister of Finland Sanna Marin emphasised that investing in people is the best response to the rapid transformations brought by AI and digitalisation. She drew on Finland’s approach to lifelong learning, which includes inclusive early childhood education, strong teacher training, and a vocational system that serves both young and adult learners. Marin highlighted the need for forward-looking policies on AI, migration, and social inclusion. While AI is changing the labour market, human skills – such as empathy and creativity – remain irreplaceable. She also stressed that migration is essential for Europe’s workforce and must be managed fairly. Addressing poverty requires an integrated approach, as demonstrated by Finland’s Housing First model.

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