Repositioning Finland as an Arctic country

Abstract

The political and economic situation and orientation of Finland as a state has varied over time, and recently a renaissance of its northern position has become evident. This paper examines the various definitions from natural science to politics over Finland’s northern and Arctic character. According to definitions in physical geography and biological indicators, the area of Finland can be seen as belonging to the sub-Arctic and Boreal zones. The recent geopolitical changes, including increasing economic interest in the exploitation of natural resources and transportation corridors in the North, and strategic value of northern areas, have increased the importance of the circumpolar Arctic. In line with this larger trend, governmental and business actors in Finland have sought to politically re-orientate the country’s position and, according to the latest governmental strategy paper on Arctic issues, Finland is explicitly defined as an Arctic country.