Migration in Finland, a multi-level system of regions

Abstract

A systems approach is applied to the study of trends in migration in Finland over the period 1945‑81 and the regional organization of inter‑commune

migration flows in 1971‑78. Although analyses of trends in migration balance and mobility show major changes to have taken place in different parts of the country, one permanent feature concerns the orientation of migration flows. Analysis of these orientation structures leads to the establishment of a set of migration regions of a permanent nature which are linked by a multi‑level system. The organization of this system varies from one part of the country to another, the most common modes being hierarchical tree flow networks belonging to a nodal system and polar and dendritic networks associated with a highly polarized system. The nodal system mode is seen to be increasing in currency.

The results complement the findings of central place research by drawing attention to the existence of central networks of diffuse nodes at different levels and various boundary zones. Invariances at various levels which are typical of a multi‑level system are identified as the work proceeds, including differentiation of hierarchical structures and changes which advance in accordance with either a hierarchical or a frontal diffusion model. Grouping analysis is used to classify the communes of Finland into six groups based on differential migration patterns within the multi‑level system.