The Functional Finland Summit held on 14 January 2026 at Finlandia Hall brought together Finland’s top political and business leaders as well as key experts to discuss the future of physical functioning. At the summit, a parliamentary declaration was approved with the aim of increasing the level of physical functioning by 15 per cent by 2040. Finland is the first country in the world to set such a target.

The physical functioning of the population is the foundation of a healthy and sustainable society – and strengthening it is both a national challenge and a significant opportunity. Improved physical functioning reduces pressure on the healthcare system, strengthens work ability and enhances individual well-being. No single measure is sufficient, however: what is needed is a shared goal and a determined, cross-sectoral direction.

New index measures physical functioning – the first of its kind globally at this scale

The UKK Institute has developed a new Physical Functioning Index that is unique even by international standards and based on measured data. The index combines physical fitness, body composition, physical activity, stationary behaviour and time in bed.

A total of ten measured factors form an easily interpretable overall score describing the physical functioning of the population. The index enables monitoring of developments over time as well as comparisons between countries and datasets.

– For the first time, the new index provides comprehensive, population-level, measured information on adults’ physical functioning. It offers a tool not only to track change, but also to guide decision-making and health promotion measures, says Tommi Vasankari, Director of the UKK Institute and Doctor of Medicine.

The Physical Functioning Index is based on an extensive population study in which more than 5,000 participants underwent measurements covering dozens of different factors of physical functioning. Of these, the ten most significant were selected to form the final index.

At the summit, the first national Physical Functioning Index value (100) was published. Results from the KunnonKartta population study show a declining trend in the physical functioning of the Finnish population and highlight the urgent need for action.

Finland commits to strengthening physical functioning – target of a 15% increase by 2040

The summit outlined Finland’s commitment to increasing the level of physical functioning of the population by 15 per cent from the current level.

Progress towards the target will be assessed regularly. The first interim evaluation will be conducted in 2030, at which point progress will be reviewed and any necessary follow-up measures defined.

The aim is to initiate a cultural shift. This requires action across education, working life, social and healthcare services, as well as strategic decision-making at both national and local levels. At the same time, it concerns everyday life and the issues that receive attention in public debate. With a shared goal, we can all take steps in the same direction.

Parliamentary declaration: Focus on effective action

The parliamentary declaration adopted at the summit emphasises that physical functioning must be placed at the centre of all policy sectors. According to the declaration, strong conditions must be created to support good physical functioning throughout the life course. All parliamentary parties committed to promoting the national physical functioning target across government terms.

Ahead of the next parliamentary elections, the aim is to jointly identify concrete measures that will enable a 15 per cent increase across key components of physical functioning at the population level. The physical functioning of the Finnish population can be turned onto a positive trajectory.

– We invite all individuals, communities and stakeholders to join in building a Finland where physical functioning is a core value and an investment in the future – in people, working life and the sustainability of society, emphasises Petteri Kilpinen, President of the Finnish Olympic Committee.