Finland - 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 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.

Life & society Finnishness

For seventh year running, Finland is first in World Happiness Report – other Nordics in top 7

Since 2018, the UN World Happiness Report has found that Finland is the happiest country in the world. How does happiness happen?

December 6

Finnish Independence Day

Business & innovation Society

A humble but powerful Finnish invention: Pedestrian safety reflectors save lives

Invented by a Finnish farmer in 1963, the pedestrian reflector is still helping people stay safe all over the world.

Life & society Quality of life

We asked people in Finland what makes them happy

In honour of the International Day of Happiness, which takes place every year on March 20, we visit Oodi, Helsinki’s grand central library, to talk with people about what makes them happy. In our video, they tell you in their own words.

5.5 million

Population of Finland

Source: Statistics Finland

Life & society Equality

Finland tops World Happiness Report for fifth time in a row, highlights trust, wellbeing and freedom – other Nordics in top 8

Finland leads the 2022 World Happiness Report, with the other Nordic countries keeping it company in the top eight. What are the values and systems that contribute to keeping Finland at the head of this list?

Life & society Webpick

Finland offers excellent challenges for runners

A number of factors make Finland a great place for runners. The website Run in Finland lists the country’s most exciting international running events for you and your friends.

Life & society Equality

Turkish organisation that combats violence against women receives international award in Finland

Finland has awarded the International Gender Equality Prize, the first high-profile prize of its kind in the world, to the We Will Stop Femicide Platform – an organisation doing groundbreaking work to combat violence against women in Turkey.

7,055,997

Number of overnight stays by foreigners annually

Source: Statistics Finland