Story perspectives
Finland Tops Happiness Index, Oulu Named Culture Capital 2026
12/30/2025
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Story summary
- Finland is named the world's happiest country for the eighth consecutive year.
- Oulu will be the European Capital of Culture in 2026 with a €50 million program titled "Cultural Climate Change" to attract 2.5 million visitors.
- Events include a Frozen People electronic music festival and a Sami opera.
- Oulu's proximity to Russia amid rising tensions underscores its strategic importance.
