7. The Quality of Self-Government in the Åland Islands

The chapter delves into the intricate history of self-government in the Åland Islands, tracing its origins back to the post-World War I negotiations between Sweden and Finland. It discusses the constitutional and legal frameworks that have shaped the islands' autonomy, including the Self-Government Act and the role of the Finnish government in controlling legislative powers. The text also explores the transition from a top-down to a bottom-up governance model, emphasizing the development of a distinct party system and the introduction of parliamentarism. Additionally, it examines the administrative and economic aspects of self-government, highlighting the region's prosperity and the challenges it faces in maintaining its autonomy within the Finnish state. The chapter concludes by assessing the quality of Åland's self-government and its impact on the region's political and social development.