Country Profile: Finland

Finland, a parliamentary republic in Northern Europe, shares borders with Sweden, Norway, and Russia, and boasts a rich history dating back to its independence in 1917. With a population of approximately 5.6 million, the nation has transformed from an agricultural society to a modern industrial economy characterized by high per-capita income, driven largely by exports in timber, metals, and technology. As a European Union member since 1995 and a NATO member since 2023, Finland places a strong emphasis on education, equality, and social welfare amidst the challenges of an aging population and global economic fluctuations.

Geography

Finland is located in Northern Europe, bordered by the Baltic Sea and situated between Sweden and Russia. The country encompasses an area of 338,145 square kilometers, which includes vast numbers of lakes and a predominantly flat terrain. Its climate is classified as cold temperate, which is moderated by surrounding maritime influences.

• 303,815 sq km of land area, with 34,330 sq km of water bodies.
• 1,250 km of coastline along the Baltic Sea.
• Features more than 60,000 lakes, contributing to its scenic beauty.
• The highest point is Halti at 1,328 m.

People and Society

With an estimated population of 5,626,414 in 2024, Finland's demographic is diverse, primarily consisting of Finnish, Swedish, Russian, Estonian, Romani, and Sami ethnic groups. Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, with a significant percentage of the population identifying as Lutheran.

• 85.8% of the population lives in urban areas (2023).
• The median age is 43.3 years (2024).
• 10.2 births per 1,000 population, with a birth rate reflecting a total fertility rate of 1.74 children born/woman.
• Population growth rate of 0.2% (2024).

Economy

Finland's economy is classified as a high-income, export-oriented system with strong industrial sectors in timber, metals, and electronics. The nation is currently emerging from recent economic challenges including a recession attributed to inflation and declining consumer demand.

• $313.591 billion GDP (PPP) in 2024.
• Unemployment rate is projected at 8.3% (2024).
• Real GDP per capita is approximately $55,600 (2024).
• Key exports include paper, refined petroleum, steel, and ships.

Government

Finland operates as a parliamentary republic, with its government characterized by a strong emphasis on social welfare and democratic governance. The current administration is led by President Alexander STUBB and Prime Minister Petteri ORPO.

• The unicameral Parliament, or Eduskunta, has 200 seats.
• Universal suffrage is granted at 18 years of age.
• The legal system is based on civil law with a constitution enacted in 2000.
• National holiday celebrated on December 6 (Independence Day).

Military and Security

The Finnish Defense Forces focus on territorial defense, emphasizing the importance of conscription and maintaining a large reserve force. With its NATO membership established in 2023, Finland is actively increasing its military expenditures.

• Military expenditures expected to be 2.8% of GDP by 2025.
• Approximately 31,000 active-duty personnel (2025).
• Over 280,000 trained reservists available for wartime.
• Participation in UN peacekeeping missions, notably in Lebanon.

Energy

Finland has achieved 100% electrification across its population, with a diverse energy mix favoring nuclear and renewables. The country continues to work on sustainable practices as part of its energy strategy.

• 77.419 billion kWh of electricity consumed in 2023.
• Nuclear power contributes 41.8% to the total installed capacity.
• Total renewable water resources are estimated at 110 billion cubic meters (2022).

Environment

Finland is known for its rigorous environmental protection efforts and sustainable practices. The nation has low levels of air pollution but faces challenges related to industrial waste and wildlife habitat loss.

• Approximately 35.4% of municipal solid waste recycled (2022).
• Rich in natural resources, especially timber and minerals.
• High levels of commitment to international environmental agreements.

Transportation

Finland’s transportation system consists of a well-developed network of roads, railways, and air travel, supporting its trade and tourism sectors.

• 5,918 km of railways, with 3,349 km electrified.
• 98 airports expected by 2025, facilitating domestic and international travel.
• A merchant marine fleet of 282 vessels as of 2023.

Communications

Finland boasts a high level of digital connectivity, with extensive coverage and access to modern communication services, including a high percentage of internet users.

• 94% of the population are internet users (2023).
• Over 7.14 million mobile cellular subscriptions recorded (2023).
• 1.98 million fixed broadband subscriptions available (2023).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	5,626,414	2024 est.
Area	338,145 sq km	Total area
GDP	$313.591 billion	2024 est. (PPP)
Unemployment Rate	8.3%	2024 est.
Birth Rate	10.2 births/1,000	2024 est.
Life Expectancy	82.2 years	2024 est.
Total Fertility Rate	1.74 children/woman	2024 est.
Literacy Rate	100%	Education system
Electricity Access	100%	2022 est.
Carbon Dioxide Emissions	33.594 million metric tonnes	2023 est.