Finland in the European Union

With a focus on governmental institutions, this book explores the ways in which EU membership has altered the balance of power among key political actors. The authors discuss cultural adaptation to integration, as well as examining the views of the elite and voters. The transformation in national identity, sovereignty and neutrality are also examined. Finland's elite pro-European consensus is discussed in terms of its geopolictical situation and economic dependence of western markets. Looking at the transformation of Finland from a semi-presidential system towards a normal parliamentary democracy and the way national integration policy is characterised by flexibility the book gives readers an insight into the political culture which is contributing to cooperative behaviour within the EU.

Tapio Raumio is a Professor of Political Science at the Department of Political Science and International Relations at the University of Tampere, Finland.