Frequently asked questions about the Union Congress
What is the Union Congress?
The Union Congress is held every four years and is the highest decision-making body in PAM. The Union Congress sets out PAM’s objectives and approves the action plan. The Congress also elects the union’s President, the personal deputy of the Chairman of the Executive Committee, the Executive Committee and the Council.
Finnish is not my first language. I am worried about my ability in the language, how will I cope at the Union Congress?
There is Swedish and English interpretation at the Congress.
How many representatives are elected to the Union Congress?
329 representatives are elected to the Union Congress.
Standing for election
If I am elected, what am I committing myself to?
You are committing yourself to one Congress. The elections elect the representatives to the Union Congress – the ones who make the decisions. The Congress will be held in Jyväskylä from 24 to 26 October 2023. Being elected doesn’t commit you for any longer than that.
Do I get time off work to attend the Congress?
Yes. Your employer has to give you time off to attend the Congress. If your employer doesn’t pay your wages for the Congress days and you have loss of earnings, PAM will pay you compensation for loss of earnings.
Are the Union Congress elections political elections?
No. PAM’s elections are not political.
I am not a member of any party. Can I stand for election?
You certainly can. You do not need to be a member of any party. Being a member of PAM is enough.
What is meant by eligible for election?
Eligible for election means that you joined PAM by 31 March 2023 and your membership is in order, i.e. your membership fees are paid.
Student or retired members are not eligible for election.
Can I choose whereabouts in Finland to stand for election?
No. Your candidacy is based on the branch you belong to as of 31 March 2023.
I have only just joined PAM. Can I stand for election?
If you have joined PAM by 31 March 2023, you can stand for election.
I am a student member. Can I stand for election?
Student members cannot stand for election.
Who can vote for me when I am a candidate?
PAM members in your election district who are entitled to vote can vote for you.
What is meant by members entitled to vote?
All PAM members who have joined PAM by 31 July 2023 are entitled to vote in the Union Congress elections if their membership is in order, i.e. their membership fees are up to date.
Members on old-age pension or full disability pension and student members are not entitled to vote.