The Transform of Finnish Educational Policy - the Viewpoint of Special Education

Educational policy in Finland is based on internationally ratified treaties, such as: UN declaration
1993; Salamanca 1994; Dacar 2000, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 2007. Since
year 1998, educational legislation has been on change toward inclusive principals and values, such
as emphasizing equality, participation and shared services. Education is guaranteed for all,
regardless of ones background, wealth or origin. According to the official statistics the amount of
students who get special education has increased significantly from the year 2005 to 2010.
Our study examines educational policy in Finland and its implementation in our primary schools.
The data of this study contains two educational policy documents: (Education and Research 1999-
2004. A development plan and Education and Research 2011–2016. A development plan) What are
the essential similarities and differences of these documents concerning special education?