thisisFINLAND

Calling all fans of the Finnish language

Hooray for Finnish, with all its grammatical glory and its endless supply of double vowels! April 9 is Finnish Language Day, and also commemorates Mikael Agricola, who is credited with creating the first written Finnish literature.

Business & innovation Webpick

Helsinki Energy Challenge helps create the future of heating

With the Helsinki Energy Challenge, the Finnish capital recognises innovations that offer new solutions for the city’s heating system, which accounts for more than half of Helsinki’s total emissions.

Arts & culture Art

Helsinki show spotlights the continual renewal of an age-old Finnish art form

It’s a word that many find difficult to pronounce, but the technique and designs of “ryijy” tapestries hold a special place in Finnish culture. We visit an extensive ryijy exhibition at Kunsthalle Helsinki to see a traditional art form that remains vibrant.

Life & society Climate

Finnish grannies act to counteract climate change

Twelve Finnish supergrannies have started a social movement that addresses climate change with a message of hope. Their mission is to use “granny wisdom” to teach people that a sustainable life is also a fulfilling one.

Finland emojis

First place in European Happiness Equality Index

Source: The Happiness Research Institute

Facts, stats and info Webcam

Helsinki South Harbour and surroundings by webcam

Webcam view from Makasiini Terminal, South Harbour, Port of Helsinki Webcam view from South Harbour, Port of Helsinki

Life & society History

Åland Islands to commence celebration of 100 years of peaceful autonomy

The Åland Islands Peace Institute contributes to a programme of events marking the centenary of a unique agreement.

Life & society Finnishness

In a year marked by Covid-19, World Happiness Report emphasises trust and points to Finland

In 2021, Finland tops the annual World Happiness Report for the fourth year in a row, with the other Nordic countries all in the top ten. We take a look at how the report works, and see what the Finnish word “onni” might have to do with Finland’s results.

Life & society Webpick

Helsinki Freedom video series tells stories about life in the Finnish capital

A minidocumentary video series celebrates the freedoms that people living in the capital experience every day. A group of hand-picked creators were given the freedom to demonstrate what being free means to them.

Life & society People

Some extraordinary Finnish people you should know about (yes, they’re all women)

In honour of not only International Women’s Day (March 8), but every other day of the year, we bring you a list of remarkable Finnish women, past and present: artists, sports stars, musicians, politicians, writers and more.

Hei!

Finnish word for "Hello!"

Life & society Sauna

Unesco highlights the intangible but very real spirit of Finnish sauna culture

“Sauna culture in Finland” is now on the Unesco list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. What does that mean, and what does the sauna represent to Finnish people?

Life & society Environment

Peatland restoration strengthens Finland’s biodiversity

Increased government funding is good news for efforts to restore some of the country’s most widespread and important natural habitats. Put on your boots and step with us into the swamps of the Finnish countryside (article includes slideshow).

things you should and shouldn’t know