List of events of major importance for society reviewed

The Ministry of Transport and Communications invites comments on the review of the list of events of major importance for society that are to be broadcast on television.

The list consists of sports events that must be broadcast on TV in the area of Finland so that a substantial proportion of public can follow the coverage of the events free of charge via live coverage or deferred coverageThe possible update of the list must meet the requirements of EU regulation. The deadline for comments is 15 June 2020.

The current list was drawn up 12 years ago. Since then, women's sporting events have attracted high viewing figures and there has been a radical change in the status of women's sports. In addition, the range of sports is now broader and the viewing habits are different than they were ten years ago.

"It is important to update the list, because both society and the sports world have changed. We must strengthen equality and non-discrimination and pay attention to new forms of communality and fan culture," says Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka.

Comments are invited especially on the following questions:

1. Should the list of events of major importance for society be updated with new sports or other events, and if so, why? What would be the effects of the change?

2. Are there any events in the current list that should be removed from it, and if so, why? What would be the effects of the change?

3. How do the possible suggestions meet the criteria by the Commission?

The Commission's criteria describing the importance of an event for society include a special general resonance of the sport, distinct cultural importance of the event, involvement of the national team in the event concerned, and the fact that the event has traditionally been broadcast on free-to-air television and commands large television audiences.

What are the next steps?

The deadline for comments is 15 June 2020. All organisations and private individuals may submit comments online at www.lausuntopalvelu.fi.

Following the consultation round, the preparations of the matter will continue by Ministry officials.

Inquiries

Päivi-Maria Virta, Chief Specialist, tel. +358 50 362 7906

Elina Thorström, Director of Unit, tel. +358 40 507 4502