Finnsus 25 January 2026
The theme of the first Finnsus Morning Coffee event of the year was cultural resilience, and a full house demonstrated just how timely and engaging the topic is. The thought‑provoking introductory remarks—thank you, Elina Anttila and Heidi Rautionmaa—sparked a rich discussion that approached the concept from many angles, from language and identity to social cohesion.
Resilience is a word that has made its way deep into everyday Finnish language. Most commonly, we associate it with crisis preparedness, economic stability, or environmental sustainability. According to Kielikello, it can also mean, among other things, the ability to withstand crises, coping capacity, or adaptability to change. We can also speak of mental resilience or inner perseverance.
Highlights from the introductions and discussions at the Morning Coffee event:
🎎 Culture creates roots—and from roots grows resilience.
Culture is not only art or tradition; it is a whole that gives us meaning:
- a sense of belonging,
- values that guide decision-making,
- narratives that explain who we are and why we are here.
For many, cultural activity is a source of mental well-being. Cultural heritage, in turn, creates continuity in a world where everything seems to be changing ever more rapidly. In the context of the war in Ukraine, we have seen how a strong identity and shared meanings can strengthen a society’s resilience. When there is something worth defending, collective resilience also grows stronger.
⛲ Conviction—religious, worldview-based, or philosophical—can help us see beyond momentary uncertainty.
It provides a framework of values and questions:
- What matters most to me in this world?
- How do I want to act when everything around me is changing?
- What do I hold on to when identities are multiple and roles keep shifting?
Conviction does not exclude diversity; rather, it can support identity as part of a broader life journey.
👥 Dialogue lies at the heart of cultural resilience
Skills of discussion, genuine encounters, and respect for others were strongly emphasized during the Morning Coffee event. Cultural resilience is built above all on the ability to engage in dialogue—not only with those who think alike, but also across differing viewpoints. Tools such as the steps of worldview dialogue, a minimal ethos, trust, and global ethics support this work. Yet dialogue quickly becomes difficult if groups retreat into their own bubbles. When this happens, the minimum level of shared understanding—the foundation on which we can live together in peace—begins to narrow. This is why we must dare to bring differing perspectives into the open, not to inflame debate, but to strengthen the resilience of society.
👩👩👧👦 Ultimately, humanity is what unites us
Cultural and conviction-based resilience are not separate elements of discussions on security or well-being. They are their foundation. When we understand what connects us—our shared humanity, dignity, and the need to be seen and heard—we are able to build a society that can withstand crises and change.