The Finnish Finns political party, known in Finland as "Perussuomalaiset" and often referred to in English as the Finns Party or True Finns, is a political party in Finland that has been characterized by its nationalist, right-wing, and populist… policies. Founded in 1995 as a successor to the Finnish Rural Party, the Finns Party has positioned itself as a defender of ordinary Finns against what it perceives as the political, media, and financial elites, both within Finland and in the European Union.<br /><br />The party's values and policies are centered around a strong sense of Finnish nationalism and skepticism towards immigration, particularly from non-European countries. It advocates for stricter immigration controls, arguing that Finland should prioritize the needs of its own citizens over those of migrants. The party also emphasizes the importance of Finnish culture, traditions, and language, and often voices concerns about the perceived threats of multiculturalism and globalization to national identity.<br /><br />Economically, the Finns Party combines elements of social conservatism with welfare chauvinism, supporting the welfare state but insisting that its benefits should be primarily reserved for Finnish citizens. It has been critical of the European Union, particularly opposing the eurozone's bailouts for countries in financial distress, reflecting its broader Eurosceptic stance. While the party supports free-market principles, it also advocates for protectionist policies to safeguard Finnish jobs and industries.<br /><br />On social issues, the Finins Party tends to lean towards conservatism, often opposing policies that promote social liberalism, such as same-sex marriage, which Finland legalized in 2017. The party also emphasizes law and order, advocating for stricter penalties for crimes and a more robust approach to national security.<br /><br />The Finns Party's rise in Finnish politics reflects broader trends in Europe, where populist and nationalist parties have gained traction by appealing to voters who feel left behind by globalization, concerned about immigration, and disillusioned with traditional political elites. Despite its controversial positions, the party has managed to secure a significant place in Finland's political landscape, participating in government coalitions and influencing public debate on its core issues.続きを読む
