The active citizenship of young people is varied
Information on the active citizenship of second-generation immigrants is scarce, even though an increasing number of Helsinki residents with a foreign background were born in Finland or have lived here since childhood. A recent interview study focused on their activities as active citizens while also providing insights into their lives as young Helsinki residents.
The interviewees were young people with a foreign background working in NGOs, various projects, informal groups and networks. They were found through the City of Helsinki’s youth services, networks of immigrant organisations and individuals. The total number of young people interviewed in the study was 11.
The interviewed young people share a strong desire to make a difference in society and pave the way for others. Their ways of making a difference are varied, and their active citizenship extends from their own circles all the way to global issues. The interviewees would prefer not to be seen only through their ethnic backgrounds, but to be treated instead as young Helsinki residents.
Being a Helsinki resident is important for young people
The interviewed young people live at the crossroads of cultures. They draw on strengths stemming from different cultures, but also experience discrimination and the questioning of their Finnishness. Some also highlight intergenerational conflicts and tensions between their families and society at large. Being a Helsinki resident is an important part of their identity.
The interviewed young people are mostly satisfied with the multi-ethnic atmosphere and opportunities offered by Helsinki, but they are also concerned about residential segregation. They would like the City of Helsinki to tackle segregation, provide low-threshold leisure activities and support independent local activities.
