Life & society

Good news: Finland tops the Good Country Index

Out of 174 countries, Finland contributes the most to the common good of humanity relative to its size, according to a new study.

Life & society Education

Report gives Finland top marks in literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills

According to a worldwide OECD survey, people in Finland have chart-topping skills in literacy, numeracy and problem solving.

Life & society Webpick

Finnish architects win international award for sustainable archipelago village

The Majamaja concept, a Finnish sustainable holiday village, draws its inspiration from the Helsinki Archipelago, where it is located.

90%

Amount of bottles and cans recycled in Finland

Source: Palpa

Life & society Language

Pronouncing Finnish with a smile: The sivistys video edition

Civilised behaviour – we’d probably all like to see more of it these days. A great Finnish word, sivistys, covers the idea – but how do you say that? With a smile! Watch our video.

Life & society Sauna

Finnish sauna healers trust tradition and the restorative powers of the forest

Birch, spruce, juniper and other trees in Finland provide a range of wellness benefits in care offered by traditional sauna healers. They draw on accrued knowledge, Finnish folklore and a good steam.

#1 passport

Finns can travel visa-free to 174 countries (Germans, Brits and Swedes share this honour)

Source: Visa Restrictions Index

Life & society Language

“Easy Language” increases your Finnish and Swedish language reach in Finland

Easy Language is aimed at those who have difficulty understanding standard language for one reason or another. It has a long history in Finland, and its scope continues to expand.

Life & society Architecture

Admiring art nouveau: Helsinki’s architectural eye candy

Helsinki showcases one of Europe’s richest concentrations of photogenic art nouveau buildings. We aim a camera at some of our favourite Finnish façades, towers, doorways and balconies.

Life & society Sustainability

On a roll: Helsinki urban planning continues to expand bike path network

The Finnish capital places high on the growing list of enlightened world capitals that embrace cycling as an urban planning priority. Broad political agreement is a factor in the long-running development of its bike path system.

63.5%

of Finns belong to the Evangelical Lutheran Church

Source: Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland