Migrants studying Finnish language in a reception centre for asylum seekers in Kirkkonummi, Finland. LEHTIKUVA
- Next Article Over 15,000 call for common tax and labour law regime for EU startups
A new law requires Finnish municipalities to provide structured courses on the country’s history, values, and social norms to immigrants. The Act on the Promotion of Immigrant Integration, which took effect at the beginning of the year, shifts responsibility for integration from the state to local governments.
The legislation mandates a 70-hour orientation programme, conducted primarily in-person and in a language immigrants understand well.
The curriculum covers Finnish legislation, employment and education opportunities, and practical aspects of daily life.
Municipalities have previously offered voluntary courses, but the law now makes them compulsory for refugees and unemployed jobseekers. Local governments can also extend the programme to all immigrants at their discretion.
Eija Asikainen, head of employment and integration services in Joensuu, said the goal is to equip immigrants with the knowledge and skills needed to function independently in Finnish society.
“In small municipalities, gathering enough participants can be challenging. The aim is to create an interactive environment where people can discuss and learn together,” Asikainen said.
The law presents challenges for local governments, particularly smaller municipalities, due to limited re
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
