The impending implementation of Kela's general support, scheduled for May, has sparked significant controversy, particularly among the unemployed community, with the Unemployed Central Organization voicing strong objections. This new support measure has emerged as a cost-saving initiative, which critics argue could adversely affect older unemployed individuals who rely on partial early retirement pensions to supplement their income. Jukka Haapakoski, the executive director of the organization, indicated that the revelation of this policy has raised serious concerns and dissatisfaction among those it affects.

A key point of contention regarding the general support is its eligibility criteria, which will now include individuals aged 55 and older under a new need-based assessment. This change implies that, in addition to salary income, other income sources, such as capital income and early retirement pensions, could potentially lead to significant reductions in the amount of support received, even by hundreds of euros. The Unemployed Central Organization has reported an influx of inquiries from members regarding this issue, indicating a high level of engagement and concern within the community.

In light of these developments, many unemployed individuals have expressed their displeasure with the changes, prompting the Unemployed Central Organization to take a firm stance on the matter and advocate for a re-evaluation of the new support structure. The organization underscores the importance of understanding the implications of this shift in policy, which could lead to significant financial hardship for vulnerable groups, particularly the aging unemployed population.