Elina Pekkarinen, the Children's Ombudsman, has delivered her annual report to the Finnish Parliament, where she proposes the integration of children's best interests into the Finnish Constitution. This recommendation comes as a reaction to pressing issues highlighted in the report, particularly regarding mental health services for children and youth, which have demonstrated significant inconsistencies in their provision across different regions of Finland. Pekkarinen emphasizes the need for standardized care that meets the needs of children, suggesting that a legal framework should mandate these services across all areas of the country.

In her report, Pekkarinen not only underlines the critical state of mental health services but also proposes the establishment of a Child Policy Assessment Council and calls for a reform of the child protection law, with a focus on preventive measures and outpatient services. Over the past four years, she has expressed her serious concern about the adverse effects of ongoing crises on children’s daily lives and overall childhood experiences. The cumulative impact of these crises necessitates an urgent and legislative approach to ensuring children's rights and welfare are prioritized.

Pekkarinen's recommendations indicate a transformative vision for how children’s rights are safeguarded in Finland, aiming to create a more cohesive and effective response to children's needs across the nation. This approach promises to not only enhance the legal status of children’s best interests but also to improve the quality and accessibility of essential services, thereby addressing the pressing issues faced by families and children in the country.