Cultural diversity in Finland

Authors

  • Pauliina Raento University of Helsinki
  • Kai Husso Academy of Finland

Abstract

The image of Finland as a culturally and ethnically homogeneous nation is erroneous. The country’s ‘old minorities’ include the Swedish-speakers, the indigenous Sami, and the Romani. Several smaller ethno-cultural and religious groups have resided in Finland since the nineteenth century. Increasing immigration is now further diversifying Finland. Many of the old and new minorities have clearly-defined regional hearths, as do many distinctive segments of the majority culture. This article provides an overview of Finland’s three largest minorities, religions, foodways, the new immigration, and the recent English-language sources available on these topics. The discussion emphasizes the new understanding of the country’s ethno-cultural make-up and political, legal, and social challenges that have followed the recent change.
Section
Research Papers

Published

2002-01-02

How to Cite

Raento, P., & Husso, K. (2002). Cultural diversity in Finland. Fennia - International Journal of Geography, 180(1-2), 151–164. Retrieved from https://fennia.journal.fi/article/view/3773