About Us

We believe that societal discussion changes the world. SuomiAreena is a pioneer of public debate and a platform for discussing and influencing Finland’s future. Our main event, Finland’s largest societal discussion festival SuomiAreena, is held annually in Pori.

SuomiAreena has been a key part of the Finnish political and societal discussion already from 2006. In 2024 SuomiAreena was established as a company to be able to develop SuomiAreena into an even more impactful societal actor. The company is jointly owned by the City of Pori and media and TV company MTV.

Our work is based on the following principles

 

1. We Stand for Democracy

Democracy is not a given, not even in Finland.

SuomiAreena defends and strengthens democracy by providing a space for open, bold, and responsible political discussion. We believe that a democratic society requires continuous dialogue and active defenders.

2. We Invite All Ideas

Our task is to reduce polarization, invite diverse ideas and thinkers to the table, and help Finns identify which ideas matter most for Finland’s future. Spreading hatred, discrimination, or intolerance toward individuals or groups is not in line with SuomiAreena’s values.

3. We Look to the Future

Finland needs more confidence in the future. When public debate stagnates or remains at a low level, our role is to elevate it. SuomiAreena brings together leading thinkers, futurists, and decision-makers to define where Finland is headed — and why.

4. Content Promise: The Best in Public Debate

SuomiAreena is a more political, international, and curated arena for societal discussion. We raise the level of conversation, bring together differing viewpoints, and reduce polarization. Every societal change is the result of decisions — part of politics. This conversation belongs to everyone.