Green Liberal for the Helsinki City Council

I'm standing for election to the Helsinki City Council because I believe liberal values need a champion. It's frustrating to see people's opportunities and freedoms compromised by the current government. My journey so far has been anything but straightforward, which is why I'm committed to ensuring equal opportunities for future generations. Helsinki should be an open, liberal city that welcomes everyone who wants to chase their dreams.

In the business world, I've learned to be an inspiring team leader and proactive problem-solver. I want to bring this hands-on approach to the city council too.

Got an idea to make Helsinki even better? Get in touch via email at moi@mattilehto.fi or DM me on Instagram @sivistysliberaali.

Matti Lehto

  • Born in 1989 in Koski Tl, southwest Finland

  • Living in Kallio, Helsinkian since 2008

  • Master of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki

  • Over 10 years of experience in the private sector in business development, marketing, and communications

  • Vice-chair of the Helsinki Greens and chair of the Greens' strategy group

  • He/him

My themes in short

Green urban planning

In a great city, everything is within reach. It's not created by shopping malls but by local businesses and welcoming streets. The abundance of nature throughout Helsinki is what makes the city so lovable. We need to introduce even more trees, green spaces, and art to every neighbourhood. This not only enhances our quality of life but also helps us adapt to climate change. We need to be even more ambitious in expanding our cycle paths and public transport network.

Affordable housing is essential for Helsinki's wellbeing. We need to construct enough homes to ensure this. Every young person in Helsinki should be able to aspire to their own place, and those employed here should be able to live near their workplace. It's also crucial for attracting international talent.

I believe climate change is tackled in cities. Helsinki must lead the way in this. If not us, then who?

Equal opportunities

As adults, we have a responsibility to provide children with the best possible start in life. Quality early education is only achievable if we ensure the wellbeing of our staff. Our schools should offer equal opportunities to all. We need to listen to our teachers and give schools the space they need to function effectively. Rather than focusing on project buzz and bureaucratic systems, we need to prioritise genuine interactions.

Helsinki is a liberal European metropolis that champions equality and openness. Cities where minorities can feel safe are cities that thrive and win the future.

Entrepreneurship and creative businesses

Helsinki should be the best location for businesses of all sizes. When vying for major investments, we're in competition with other European capitals, and Helsinki's triumphs translate to Finland's success.

Local businesses make Helsinki special. The city's role should be to foster entrepreneurship, rather than hindering it with cumbersome bureaucracy and lengthy delays. Take the restaurant industry, for example; it's encountered its fair share of challenges. We need to explore additional ways to bolster this crucial sector. A thriving urban culture is also sustained by a vibrant restaurant scene.

Having forged my career in the creative sector, I understand the international competition for clients and top talent. Helsinki must pull out all the stops to make it attractive for people to settle and work here. Moreover, we need to enhance our business ecosystems, as they're the breeding grounds for new success stories.