Overview of Finland

Profile

Finland is located on the northeastern shore of the Baltic Sea, bordering Sweden, Norway, and Russia. Rich forest resources support a developed pulp and paper industry, and since the 1990s, the ICT industry centered on Nokia has driven the economy. Investment in education and innovation, transparent politics, and high-quality public services are internationally acclaimed. Sauna culture, midnight sun, and northern lights also attract travelers worldwide.

Official name: Republic of Finland
Common name: Finland
Numeric code: 246
Alpha-3 code: FIN
Alpha-2 code: FI
Population: Approximately 5.6 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 18 people/km²
Primary languages: Finnish, Swedish
Major religions: Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, Finnish Orthodox Church
National anthem: Our Land (Maamme)
Calling code: +358
Internet TLD: .fi

History

Swedish territory since the Northern Crusades of the 1150s, became a Russian Grand Duchy from 1809, and gained independence in 1917.

Developed as a province of the Swedish Kingdom since the Middle Ages, but ceded to the Russian Empire in 1809, becoming the Grand Duchy of Finland. After a national movement in the late 19th century, declared independence in December 1917. Experienced the Winter War and Continuation War with the Soviet Union during World War II while maintaining independence. During the Cold War, maintained neutrality while approaching European integration, joining the EU in 1995. Joined NATO in 2023 due to changes in the security environment with Russia.

Geography & climate

Flat terrain carved by glaciers with countless lakes and swamps, most of the country covered by taiga forests. Tundra spreads in the north with gentle hills continuing.

Cold temperate humid climate (subarctic)

Area: Europe / 338440 km²
Capital: Helsinki
Largest city: Helsinki
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Saimaa, Lake Päijänne, Lake Inari, Lake Näsijärvi
Bordering countries: Sweden, Norway, Russia

Natural resources

Forest resources, Freshwater, Nickel, Copper, Gold, Zinc, Limestone, Peat (turf), Clean energy (hydro/wind), Tourism resources (aurora/midnight sun)

Politics

Government: Parliamentary republic (with semi-presidential elements)

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 297 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 322 billion international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Finnish, Swedish

Time zone: Eastern European Time, Eastern European Summer Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Finns, Swedish-speaking Finns, Sami, Roma, Russians, Estonians

Life expectancy

81 years

Literacy rate

99%

National sports

Ice Hockey, Cross-country Skiing, Pesäpallo, Rally Racing, Football, Floorball, Ski Jumping, Long-distance Running, Bandy