LYY’s mission is also to influence the social status of students both locally and nationally, as well as to be a more influential social actor. The growth of tourism in Rovaniemi has created opportunities, such as the chance to work alongside one’s studies. However, it has also created problems that affect students’ ability to find long-term rental housing. 

The public comment period for Rovaniemi’s tourism program ran until early August. The program’s goal is for Rovaniemi to become an international leader in sustainable tourism by 2040, creating greater value for locals, tourists, and the environment. The specific objectives are centered on well-being, socially acceptable and managed growth, foresight, as well as high quality, safety, and responsibility. LYY views the program as a solid strategic starting point for developing tourism and a major step forward for the City of Rovaniemi in addressing the challenges posed by tourism. In its statement, LYY raises concerns about how the program addresses the difficult housing situation and emphasizes that high-value tourism businesses also provide high-value jobs where employees’ rights are respected. Furthermore, in its statement, the Student Union questions whether tourism can be sustainable when travel to the area is primarily by air, even though travel by train could be promoted more.  

LYY also issued a statement at the end of August regarding the tourism tax bill drafted by the Ministry of Finance. The bill proposed a value-based tax—that is, a tax at a certain percentage rate—which municipalities and cities could implement. The Student Union emphasizes the introduction of a short-term rental registry which would make the accommodation sector more equitable for everyone. In addition, LYY points out that students who travel to their place of study for academic reasons are not required to pay the tourism tax.