Finland’s Minister of Social Affairs and Health, Wille Rydman, has halved research funding for social work, despite recommendations to the contrary from civil servants and peer reviews. Rydman, representing the Finns Party, justified the decision by citing the current state of the national economy. The cuts disregard a formal proposal presented by ministry officials. This move effectively bypasses established expert evaluation processes. Critics suggest the decision prioritizes austerity measures over evidence-based policy development in a crucial social sector. The funding reduction is expected to significantly impact ongoing and future research projects within social work. Rydman’s action has raised concerns about the independence of research and the government’s commitment to supporting social welfare initiatives.