Authors

• International Social Survey Programme (ISSP)
• Blom, Raimo (University of Tampere. School of Social Sciences and Humanities)
• Melin, Harri (University of Tampere. School of Social Sciences and Humanities)

Keywords

European Union, citizenship, ethnic groups, immigrants, immigration policy, national identity, national prestige, nationalism, nationality, patriotism

Abstract

The survey studied national identity, national pride and national consciousness of the Finns, and their opinions on Finland's international influence and role, the European Union, the impact of immigration, immigrants, national minorities, and national culture.

Questions charted identification with town/city, nation and Europe, most important characteristics for Finnish identity, and perceived pride in being a Finn, and pride in Finland due to democracy, scientific, economic, artistic or sports achievements, social security system, history, equality etc. Attitudes to the power of international institutions, international organisations or the EU to enforce policies in Finland, acquisition of land by foreigners, free trade, and impact of international companies to local business were investigated.

Further questions surveyed whether national customs and traditions should be followed to achieve full nationality, should national minorities preserve their own culture, and should different racial and ethnic groups assimilate or retain their identity. Opinions on immigration policy, the rights of immigrants, impact of immigrants on Finnish society, consequences of patriotic feelings, and ethnic diversity in the workplace were charted. The respondents were also asked if they and their parents had Finnish citizenship.

Background variables included the respondent's and spouse's gender, year of birth, education, employment, working hours, supervisory duties, occupation, economic activity and occupational status. Further background information included the respondent's membership in a trade union, religious affiliation, religious attendance, self-perceived social class, political party preference in elections, household composition, number of staff members in the workplace, and employer type.