Finland Launches Working Group to Promote 6G Communication Technologies

The Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications has established a working group to advance 6G communication technologies. The group’s primary focus is to develop a national 6G roadmap for Finland while fostering collaboration and information exchange in the development of future wireless networks. This working group includes representatives from key government agencies, research institutions, and the private sector. 6G Flagship at the University of Oulu is represented by Marja Matinmikko-Blue, who serves as the Director of Sustainability and Regulation at 6G Flagship.

Finland has long been a leader in mobile networks. This initiative aims to keep the country among the global frontrunners in developing and adopting the next generation of mobile networks.

The working group will support Finland’s international efforts in the 6G space. This includes preparing national positions on key issues discussed in international forums. The group will map out Finland’s goals for the radio frequencies needed for future mobile technologies. The roadmap will also address securing networks during the 6G transition and ensuring reliability and interoperability. On security matters, the group’s work will align with the National Cyber Security Advisory Board.

The working group is led by Sabina Lindström, Director-General at the Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications, with Laura Eiro, a fellow Director-General from the ministry, serving as Vice Chair. Other members of the group include representatives from the Ministry of Education and Culture, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The Office of the National Cyber Security Director is also represented, as well as the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) and the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency.

Business Finland, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, and Nokia are among the other organisations participating in the working group. Telecommunications companies such as DNA, Telia, and Elisa are also represented. The group includes members from FiCom, the Technology Industries of Finland, as well as several universities, including University of Oulu, Aalto University, University of Helsinki, and Tampere University.

Commenting on the initiative, Marja Matinmikko-Blue noted, “Collaborating on a national scale is vital for achieving our 6G goals. This working group fosters the connections and shared knowledge that will keep Finland at the forefront of technological advancement.”