A historic reform is underway in Finland. The new University Act, which will enter into force in August 2009, will further extend the autonomy of Finnish universities. Separated from the state, the Finnish universities will become either public-law corporations or private-law foundations. The reform will affect university finances as well as administrative decision-making procedures and human resources policies. On 13 March 2009 a non-violent demonstration was held in Helsinki in opposition to the New University Act. The event was titled “The Friday of Nightmares.” A smaller demonstration was held in Oulu.
