thisisFINLAND

How “every person’s right” in Finland evolved over more than a century

More than 110 years ago in eastern Finland, Ilma Lindgren fought for her right to pick lingonberries on land she did not own. Her court case provided a legal precedent, helping ensure that everyone may enjoy nature, regardless of who owns the terrain.

Arts & culture Technology

Becoming Alan Wake: The Finnish face of a world-famous video game

When Ilkka Villi arrives at the office in the morning, he promptly suits up in a full-body spandex outfit and gets to work pretending to be an action hero.

Arts & culture Festivals

Pop, rap, techno and yoik: Festival in the far north of Finland spotlights Sámi music, culture and languages

The annual festival Ijahis Idja (Nightless Night) in the very northern town of Inari showcases modern and traditional music by Sámi Indigenous people. We talk with several performers about their music and heritage.

Mellunmäki

The world's northernmost metro station, in Helsinki

Arts & culture Technology

Finnish university project seeks to understand video game culture

With the increasing popularity and impact of video games on today’s cultural landscape comes the need to study and analyse them, too.

Arts & culture Cuisine

Food first: Finnish festival cuisine emphasises sustainability and artisanal touches

The recipe for the perfect bite? Sustainable, local ingredients turned into world-class artisanal dishes, served with a smile in a laid-back festival setting.

Life & society Quality of life

My happy place in Finland

Four expats in Finland tell their stories and reveal how living there contributes to the way they view and experience happiness.

Business & innovation Webpick

University of Helsinki presents health and sustainability innovations at startup mega-event Slush

The University of Helsinki is at Slush, the world’s leading startup event (held annually in the Finnish capital – November 20–21 in 2024), to show off high-quality research that gives rise to future innovations and technologies.

Life & society Nature

Spending an idyllic week in a Finnish national park, on a shepherding holiday

In several of Finland’s national parks, grazing sheep and cows help maintain traditional landscapes. Holiday-goers can enjoy a week surrounded by natural beauty while looking after the animals.

#3 passport

Finns can travel visa-free to 175 countries (14 other countries share this honour)

Source: Passport Index

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