Conference

How do we build shared understanding in a society where people get their information from different sources, in different languages and through the lens of different experiences?

Shared understanding depends on more than the information we receive: the same concepts can mean different things to different people. Cultura Foundation conducted a survey to explore how immigrants themselves, professionals working in integration, public authorities, journalists, and representatives of municipalities and civil society organisations understand trust and integration.

Drawing on the findings of the survey, we will open the conference with a question: when we use the same words, do we mean the same things?

Cultura Foundation’s follow‑up study, Russian Speakers in Finland 2026, will be published at the conference. Conducted since 2022, the study provides comparable data on the views of Russian-speaking residents of Finland, their participation in society, and their relationship with Finnish institutions and the media.

In the 2026 study, the sample of 20–29‑year-olds has been increased, allowing for a more detailed examination of young people’s responses.

The discussion will then broaden from research focusing on Russian‑speaking residents to Finnish society as a whole and to a wider European perspective.

In his keynote address, Pasi Saukkonen will examine trust, belonging and the construction of a shared reality in a changing Finland.

Félix Krawatzek of the Centre for East European and International Studies (ZOiS, Germany) will bring a European research perspective to the discussion, focusing on democracy, generations, history and belonging.

Young people’s relationship with society will also be explored through the DISCO research project at Tampere University and research conducted at ZOiS.

DISCO examines the intergenerational transmission of political values and views within families, including families with Russian and Somali backgrounds in Finland. Research at ZOiS brings a complementary perspective on young people’s views of society, intergenerational relations, and the role of journalistic and social media.

The audience will have an opportunity to ask questions, challenge ideas, and reflect on what they have heard. The conference will conclude by exploring what building shared understanding requires of us in practice.

The conference languages are Finnish and English. Interpretation will be provided from Finnish into Russian and English.

The event is open to everyone, but advance registration is required.

Conference moderator: Johannes Hurmas

Places are limited – register early to secure your place.