Social situation in Finland
In Finland, social and economic differences between social groups have grown in the last few years. Poverty, marginalization and differences in well-being and health have grown between citizens, between social groups and regions in the country. The European economic crisis with its cumulative impacts has had harmful effects on children and youth in poor families, elderly people living alone and others. According to the criteria used in the Europe 2020 strategy, there are almost 900 000 people living in poverty today in Finland (out of 5,3 million population). Finland’s government has committed to decrease the number of people living in poverty by 150 000 by 2020.
Researchers
The Arctic Centre of University of Lapland, Finland is internationally recognized for the quality and relevance of its multidisciplinary Arctic research. Through this research, the Arctic Centre promotes increased knowledge, awareness and understanding of the Arctic both within and outside the region. This research supports decision-making and sustainable development in the Arctic. The research in the Centre focuses on three main themes: global change, sustainable development and environmental & minority law.