ISSP 2023: National Identity IV: Finnish Data

In 2023, the International Social Survey Programme (ISSP) focused on national identity. The questions covered issues such as Finnishness, immigration attitudes, democracy, trust in the Finnish public sector and views on the European Union. This data consists of a questionnaire collected from Finns. The first question asked what characteristics of people were considered important for them to be considered Finnish. Respondents' pride in Finland was measured by statements on democracy, international political influence, economic achievements, social security system, achievements in sport, art and literature, the military, history and equality. The following statements covered a wide range of national and international policies, including protecting Finland's economy, environmental pollution, looking after Finland's own interests and the right of foreigners to buy land. Questions were also asked about transnational enterprises, free trade and international organisations and associations. Several statements dealt with different racial and ethnic groups, immigrants and their culture. Questions were also asked about trust in the Finnish public sector and views on personal influence and democracy. Questions on the European Union asked, for example, whether Finland benefits from membership of the Union and whether Finland should follow the Union's decisions even if it disagrees with them. It was also asked whether the European Union should have more or less power than the national governments of the Member States and how the respondent would vote if a referendum were held on Finland's continued membership of the European Union. Background variables included, among others, the respondent's gender, year of birth, marital status, level of education, occupation, voting behaviour, gross income, current labour market status, household size and metropolitan area. In addition, background variables included the education, occupation and labour market status of the respondent's spouse.