Finland’s official bilingualism, recognizing both Finnish and Swedish, has a long-standing
history intertwined with cultural identity and geopolitical considerations. However, the
increasing dominance of English in global communication and business has prompted
discussions about whether Finland should adapt its language policy to remain competitive
in an evolving world.
Numerous studies, such as “The Impact of English Language Skills on National Income: A
Cross-National Comparison” (2013) and the literature review “Economic Advantages of
Bilingualism” (2022), have shown a strong correlation between proficiency in English and
economic prosperity. While these studies don’t focus specifically on Finland, their findings
suggest that embracing English as an official language could enhance Finland’s appeal to
international businesses and investors, boost tourism, and attract skilled labor from a
wider pool of talent. These factors could potentially contribute to increased GDP growth
and economic stability.
While the economic arguments are compelling, it’s crucial to acknowledge the cultural and
historical significance of Swedish in Finland. Swedish is not merely an official language; It
represents a shared heritage with Sweden and plays a role in maintaining strong bilateral
relations. Furthermore, many Finnish speakers learn Swedish in school, fostering a sense
of national unity and understanding.
One potential solution is to explore a trilingual model, where English, Finnish, and Swedish
coexist as official languages. This approach could balance economic pragmatism with
cultural preservation, acknowledging both the benefits of embracing English for
international communication and the importance of upholding Finnish and Swedish as
integral components of national identity.
To further enhance Finland’s linguistic capabilities and intercultural understanding, it could
be beneficial to require comprehensive school students (starting in 7th grade) to learn an
additional international language beyond the three official languages. This could empower
future generations with valuable skills for engaging with diverse cultures and economies.
On a broader scale, the European Union currently lacks a single official language, which
can lead to inefficiencies and communication barriers. As English is widely used as a
lingua franca in business, science, and international relations, designating it as the official
language of the EU could streamline processes, foster collaboration, and potentially
strengthen the economic position of the bloc.
The discussion surrounding Finland’s language policy is complex and multifaceted. It
involves weighing economic considerations against cultural and historical factors. Open
dialogue and careful consideration of various perspectives are crucial in finding a path
forward that best serves the interests of Finland and its people.
As the world continues to evolve, Finland’s language policy must adapt to meet the
demands of the 21st century. By embracing multilingualism and fostering a diverse
linguistic landscape, Finland can position itself for continued success on the global stage.
Petrus Liekas
Kansainvälisen jaoston jäsen
