According to Finnish legislation, registration based on ethnic origin is prohibited, so there is no exact information available about the number of Roma in Finland. However, it is estimated that there are around 10,000 Finnish Kaale in Finland and approximately 3,000 Finnish Kaale living in Sweden. Despite their relatively small population, they have managed to maintain their unique identity and cultural traditions.

Cultural Traditions and Modern Transition

The culture of Roma in Finland and Sweden is built around the family, relatives, and community. Like other minority cultures, specific binding factors include a sense of togetherness and solidarity. Roma culture values relationships, customs, and old traditions, but the end of the nomadic lifestyle about 50 years ago marked a significant change, requiring adaptation to a settled way of life.

Respect for the elderly is central in Roma culture, influencing customs and family dynamics. The family structure traditionally includes extended family members, with clear roles where men are seen as the head of the family and women as its heart. Roma in Finland follow strict hygiene rules, a tradition rooted in their former nomadic lifestyle. These rules, crucial for maintaining internal order and unity, address both physical and symbolic cleanliness. Originating from the need to separate people from animals for health reasons, these practices include keeping food and cutlery off places where people sit or walk, not lifting items from the floor to the table, and washing tea towels and tablecloths separately from other laundry. Everything that goes into the mouth must be clean, emphasizing the importance of purity.Traditional clothing is also significant, especially for women, reflecting cultural values and belonging to a certain clan.

Finland's policy towards Roma

The everyday life of Roma people in Finland today involves balancing the preservation of their cultural traditions with integration into mainstream society. Many Roma face challenges such as discrimination and socioeconomic disparities, which impact access to education, employment, and healthcare. However, there are also positive aspects, such as strong community ties, cultural resilience, and increasing participation in Finnish public life. Efforts from the Finnish government, including the National Roma Policy (ROMPO) 2023–2030, aim to improve equality and inclusion, enhancing the overall quality of life for the Roma community.

Finland's National Roma Policy (ROMPO) 2023–2030, based on the EU Roma strategic framework, aims to promote Roma equality, inclusion, and participation. It focuses on eliminating discrimination, particularly anti-Gypsyism, with sectoral objectives in education, employment, housing, and health. The policy strengthens Roma social, linguistic, and cultural rights. Progress will be reported to the European Commission every two years, with mid-term evaluations at both EU and national levels.

One of the main focuses for the Finnish government in its efforts to improve the lives of Roma people is education. The National Roma Policy enhances educational opportunities, with initiatives aimed at increasing Roma children's participation in early childhood education, improving their school attendance, and reducing dropout rates. Vocational training and adult education programs are also being strengthened to ensure better job prospects for Roma adults.

In the employment sector, ROMPO 2023–2030 outlines measures to combat workplace discrimination and promote equal employment opportunities. This includes support services, mentorship programs, and cooperation with employers to create inclusive work environments. These efforts are crucial in addressing the historically high unemployment rates within the Roma community.

Access to social and health services is another critical area where the Finnish government is making efforts. ROMPO 2023–2030 aims to ensure that Roma individuals receive equitable health care, focusing on preventive services and addressing specific health issues prevalent within the community. Social services are also being improved to provide comprehensive support, including housing assistance and social integration programs.

The preservation of Roma culture and identity is also an important aspect of Finland's approach. ROMPO 2023–2030 supports initiatives that celebrate Roma heritage, including cultural events, language preservation programs, and the promotion of Roma arts and crafts. At the same time, the policy actively combats anti-Gypsyism through awareness campaigns, education, and legislative measures aimed at reducing hate speech and discrimination.

The inclusion of Roma voices in decision-making processes is seen by Finnish Government as a vital component of Finland's strategy. ROMPO 2023–2030 ensures that Roma representatives are involved in policy development, implementation, and evaluation.

The Advisory Board on Roma Affairs

The Advisory Board on Roma Affairs under the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health in Finland plays a critical role in the implementation and oversight of Finland's National Roma Policy (ROMPO) 2023–2030. It was established in 1956 as the Advisory Board on Gypsy Affairs, but only in 1989 representers from Roma were made members of the Board. It operates alongside the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, with appointments made for three-year terms. The Board consists of 16 members, half of the members represent the Roma population, and the other half represent the administrative sectors. This body's role includes enhancing the equal participation of the Roma population in Finnish society, improving living conditions and the socio-economic position, and promoting the culture; taking part in Nordic and other international cooperation in order to improve the position of the Roma. The Advisory Board collaborates with authorities in Finland to ensure that the policy measures are effectively executed and aligned with the needs of the Roma population. The board also provides valuable feedback, supports policy development, and monitors progress towards the policy's objectives of equality, inclusion, and participation for the Roma people.

Therefore, while challenges remain, the Finnish Government's comprehensive approach demonstrates a strong commitment to improving the lives of Kale Roma people in Finland.