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In-Depth Information
their principles by entering a coalition government, they opted to become the major oppos-
ition party instead, establishing them as a serious political force. Meanwhile, the other
MPs finally formed a six-party coalition under the prime ministership of centre-right Jyrki
Katainen. Katainen was succeeded as prime minister in 2014 by the charismatic Alexander
Stubb.
The success of what is now just called the Finns Party (Perussuomalaiset) reflected con-
cerns about rising immigration and a feeling of frustration that Finnish taxpayers were be-
ing forced to pay for other countries' problems. It evoked a stereotype of the lonely Finn
sitting at home and not caring much about the rest of the world. It remains to be seen if
their influence is extended or diminished in the 2015 elections.
Climate Change
Southern Finland has already noticed dramatically changed weather patterns, with much
milder winters. The once unthinkable prospect of a non-white Christmas in Helsinki is
now a reality. Scientists in the Arctic are producing increasingly worrying data and it
seems that northern nations like Finland may be some of the earliest to be seriously affec-
ted. Though Finland will reap corn sown by bigger nations, its people and government are
very environmentally conscious. Finland's own commitment to combating climate change
is strong, having set a legally binding target in 2014 of 80% emissions reduction by 2050.
A large nuclear power sector is backed by an increasing percentage of renewable energy.
Society & Culture
Finns are rightly proud of the strong foundations of their society. Famously high tax rates
means the nation is well equipped to look after its citizenry with some of the world's best
healthcare and education. Though Finns grumble about the high excise on alcohol, they
appreciate the reliable public transport and world-class universities, libraries and other in-
frastructure these same taxes afford. Like much of the world, the country is holding its
breath as ageing baby boomers retire and it attempts to maintain high pensions.
Finland's superior education system manifests itself in an extraordinary cultural output,
particularly in the sphere of classical music. Finland produces a constant stream of brilliant
composers, conductors and musicians, while music-school graduates have also gone on to
form some of the country's huge variety of heavier rock and metal bands.
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