Although some Finns may complain that this makes for slightly dull politics, the system has produced a level of political stability and continuity undreamt of in most countries.

The long border that Finland shares with Russia is also the eastern border of the EU. Finland’s role as a bridge between the East and the West, coupled with its active participation in the international community, has brought respect and stature for a country of just 5.3 milllion people. In 2008, former president Martti Ahtisaari was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in resolving international conflicts.