Finland - 97.21
2
The Nordic model with Finnish characteristics
Finland has repeatedly distinguished itself as a nation that prioritizes its people. Unique from many of its neighbors in that it lacks a monarchy, Finland nonetheless largely follows the Nordic model. Finland’s main issue is its controversial classification of transgenderism as a mental disorder and comparatively stringent requirements to transition. In general, Finland was a shining example for other countries.
Human Rights - 96
Finland has fully abolished the death penalty. Some minor concerns persisted about state surveillance. Finland has a relatively strict policy for gender transitions when compared with its Nordic neighbors, requiring a medical diagnosis and sterilization, but a bill is pending to change this. Abortion is generally accessible to all in Finland and is permissible under broad economic and health-related grounds, as well as in cases of rape, incest, and fetal impairment.
Democracy - 99
Finland’s largely ceremonial president is directly elected, while the Prime Minister is chosen by parliament. Parliament is directly elected and elections are managed freely and fairly with a strong multi-party system.
Freedom - 93
Finland defines hate speech as “speech intended to provoke violence based on ethnicity” but Finnish hate speech laws are seldom enforced. Finland has a complicated but reformist drug policy. Users can freely access clean needles and rehabilitation programs provide cut drugs but Finland maintains very steep penalties for the manufacture, distribution, and trafficking of drugs. Finland shall issue gun ownership licenses for semi-automatic rifles and handguns but does not issue self-defense permits.
Economy - 99
Finland has no poverty - only 12% of Finns are at risk of falling below the national poverty line. Finland’s unemployment rate sits at 7.83%. Finland has some of the lowest economic disparity in the world. Finland’s minimum wage is $3352 per year, but most Finns are expected to join labor unions. Finland has one of the strongest universal healthcare schemes in the world. Finlands GDP shrunk by 2.8% in 2020 and grew by 1.8% in 2019.
Health - 100
Finland’s life expectancy is 82 years and its infant mortality rate sits at 0.19%. Finland’s obesity rate is 22% and hardly any Finns are malnourished - with the malnourishment rate sitting at just 0.04%. Finland’s universal healthcare system is world-class. Some 99.6% of Finns have access to clean, running water.
Corruption - 100
No major issues were noted
Competency - 97
Finland has failed to repeal or use unenforced laws.
Future - 99
Finland’s future looks bright, with a steadfast democracy and a competent government. Finland’s economy has not seen significant growth in over a decade.
Actions Abroad - 91
Finland is a full contributing member of the EU, and despite not being a NATO member state it maintains good relations with most NATO members. Finland provides large amounts of foreign aid to Ethiopia, with FInnish foreign aid helping to install water pumps in remote areas. Finland has been a forerunner in helping to foster trade deals between the EU and non-EU countries, including Colombia, Argentina, and South Africa.