Characteristics of DEI Policies and Initiatives in Finnish Higher Education

Abstract

 This study investigates the key features of Finland's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies and initiatives, ultimately providing insights for promoting DEI in Japanese higher education. Complemented by interview data, official reports, regulations, and university policies from the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture and University of Helsinki are examined.

 At the national level, Finland promotes equality, nondiscrimination, and diversity through legal frameworks and data monitoring. Universities and stakeholders uphold these values as societal ideas. However, owing to language and environmental constraints, demographic challenges, such as a declining birthrate and an aging population, create barriers to integrating international students and staff.

 While complying with national laws, the University of Helsinki has adopted a holistic DEI approach that prioritizes well-being and stress reduction. Notably, the emphasis on participatory decision-making, particularly student engagement in developing DEI outcome indicators, reflects a strong student-centered approach. This suggests the potential for rethinking the university's internal quality assurance system to better support such initiatives.