Open Government

We create an open and shared Oulu 

With open government we can all participate in the building of our home city. Open governance means everything that brings the municipality and its activities closer to the citizens of Oulu: possibilities to influence common issues through multiple channels, understandable language in communication and decision-making, more accessible services, and comprehensive information on the functions of governance and decisions.  

The city is where the citizens are! 

 

The city of Oulu promotes openness in its activities   

During their meeting on June 3, 2024, the City Board approved the city of Oulu’s Open Government Action Plan for the years 2024–2027. 

The city of Oulu’s Open Government Action Plan is the city’s practical plan for the development of openness in administration and services on all city sectors. The Plan is divided into four focus areas: openness and comprehensibility; trust and responsibility; accessibility and availability; and human-focus and participation. The achievement of the goals is evaluated regularly in all city sectors. 

One action in the focus area of openness and comprehensibility is increasing the use of plain language in the city’s communications. Training and guidance are organized for the city personnel in different matters, such as non-discriminatory language.  

The city of Oulu operates as a trustworthy and responsible partner with different operators, including digital services. The personnel’s awareness and understanding of the utilization of artificial intelligence in their own work is increased. Artificial intelligence solutions are co-opted in a controlled manner, extensive background studies are conducted, and the restrictions of its utilization are understood. 

The city of Oulu will take into account the Act on the Provision of Digital Services and availability and accessibility directives in the promotion of accessibility and availability. Digital support is being coordinated and a webpage is created for digital support. Accessibility and availability competence and the participation of experts by experience are promoted in the development of services.  

As an example of the goal-oriented work within the focus area of human-focus and participation, is the regional Civil Society Academy, an annual event and meeting place for associations and the public sector. The Civil Society Academy of 2024 will be organized on November 7 at Oulu City Hall.