Deputy Prime Minister of Finland, leading the country's finance ministry and playing a key role in shaping the nation's economic policies. Known for her efforts to balance the budget and promote sustainable growth.
Jutta Urpilainen is a Finnish politician who made history by becoming the first female chair of the Social Democratic Party of Finland, a position she held from 2008 to 2014. During her tenure, she also served as the Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister of Finland from 2011 to 2014, making her one of the most influential women in Finnish politics.
Born on August 4, 1975, in Lapua, Southern Ostrobothnia, Urpilainen is the daughter of former politician Kari Urpilainen. She pursued her higher education at the University of Jyvskyl, where she graduated with a Master's of Education in 2002. As part of her undergraduate studies, she spent an Erasmus year in Vienna, broadening her perspective and gaining valuable international experience.
Urpilainen's political career began to take shape when she served as the president of the Young European Federalists of Finland in 2001. She then joined the Kokkola city council in 2001, marking the start of her journey in public office. In 2003, she was elected as a member of Parliament for the Vaasa constituency, a position she held until 2011.
During her time in Parliament, Urpilainen was a member of the Committee on Education and Culture and a deputy member of the Finance Committee. She was also a member of the Advisory Council of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, showcasing her commitment to international cooperation and diplomacy.
In 2008, Urpilainen made history by becoming the first female chair of the Social Democratic Party of Finland, a position she held for six years. During her tenure, she worked tirelessly to promote social justice, equality, and sustainable development in Finland. Her leadership and vision helped the party return to government in 2011, after a four-year hiatus.
From 2011 to 2014, Urpilainen served as the Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister of Finland, making her one of the most powerful women in Finnish politics. During her tenure, she implemented several key economic reforms, aimed at promoting growth, stability, and sustainability in Finland.
In 2019, Urpilainen took on a new challenge as the European Commissioner for International Partnerships in the European Commission led by Ursula von der Leyen. In this role, she is responsible for promoting sustainable development, poverty reduction, and human rights around the world.
In November 2023, Urpilainen announced her candidacy for the 2024 election for President of Finland, marking a new chapter in her illustrious political career. If elected, she would become the first female President of Finland, further cementing her legacy as a trailblazing leader.
Jutta Urpilainen's remarkable career is a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and commitment to public service. Her trailblazing journey has inspired countless women and young people in Finland and beyond, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
Through her work, Urpilainen has left an indelible mark on Finnish politics, promoting social justice, equality, and sustainable development. As she continues to break barriers and push boundaries, her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and empower future generations of leaders and change-makers.
70 Years Old
A Finnish journalist and politician who served as the Prime Minister of Finland from 2003 to 2010, known for his leadership during a period of economic growth and EU integration.
82 Years Old
Finnish lawyer and politician who served as the 11th President of Finland, known for being the first female head of state in the country. She's a champion of human rights and social justice.
85 Years Old
Finnish journalist and politician who served as Prime Minister of Finland from 1995 to 2003, known for his efforts to join the European Union and his role in shaping Finland's foreign policy.
57 Years Old
The first female Prime Minister of Finland, serving from 2010 to 2011, known for her efforts to address the European sovereign-debt crisis and promote Nordic cooperation.
78 Years Old
The 12th President of Finland, a decorated war hero and seasoned politician, led the country through economic turmoil and strengthened its international presence. He's known for his calm and collected leadership style.
58 Years Old
Finnish politician who served as Prime Minister and President, known for his strong advocacy for European integration and economic reforms.
