Finns In Poland – A Contemporary Analysis

Abstrakti

Despite the vast research on Finnish emigration, little is known about Finns’ emigration to Poland. The present study contributes to the underdeveloped areas of study on Finnish expatriation to the Slavic countries. Regardless of Poland’s diffi cult history, or economic and cultural differences, more than 200 Finns have decided to settle in Poland. The number is even bigger when counting temporary immigrants. The study concentrates on some of the historical perspectives, as well as on contemporary analysis through qualitative interviews with 31 Finns living in Poland. Respondents were asked mainly about their reasons for migrating and attitude toward Poland as the destination country. Detailed investigation into the social cohesion of the Finnish minority in Poland is needed. Especially important is further study to determine the post-accession trends in Finnish migration to Poland, especially in the context of the first census since 2002.