18-year-old Annika Mikkonen to step into the role of Prime Minister for the Girls Takeover event
An interesting event will take place in Finland this March, as 18-year-old Annika Mikkonen steps into the shoes of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo. This is part of the international Girls Takeover campaign, which aims to amplify the voices of young women in societal decision-making.
The event, held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, gives young people the opportunity to experience what leading a state is like in practice. Mikkonen will get to shadow the Prime Minister's workday, participate in meetings, and bring her own perspective to current political discussions.
Girls Takeover is a campaign organized by the organization Plan International, held annually around International Women's Day. The purpose of the event is to promote equality and encourage girls and young women to take an interest in advocacy and leadership roles.
The Finnish Government is participating in the campaign to give young people better visibility at the highest levels of society. During the day, Mikkonen and Prime Minister Orpo will discuss topics such as the future of young people and themes important to them.
Events of this type are important, as they remind decision-makers of the significance of younger generations. Annika Mikkonen's day as Prime Minister is a concrete example of how young people can actively participate in Finnish democracy.