In Search of Equity: Instruments of Equity Within Finnish Cultural Policy and Funding

Abstract

Equity has become a prominent topic through societal movements, activism and research contributing to social justice. The rapidly diversifying Finnish society needs to acknowledge its discriminating structures and cultural policy and funding are not an exception. This thesis aims to describe how equity is integrated into Finnish cultural policy and funding of current. The key elements of equity are examined from three perspectives, the policies, the funding, and research on cultural policy. The multifaceted concepts of diversity, identity, discrimination and intersectionality will guide this study grounded on the theoretical frameworks of cultural policy, cultural rights and research on cultural policy. Through its vast and interconnected frameworks, this study reveals cultural policy to be essential in realising equity in the field of arts and culture and within state funding. Rooted in intersectional feminist thinking, this study strives to reveal what equity measures Finnish cultural policy and funding encases, how they are implemented and monitored and furthermore what are the themes arising from current discourse on diversity and equity. The results indicate evident intent and will among decision-makers to include equity into policymaking, however a systematic approach has not been implemented as of yet. Many of the equity instruments and objectives appear general without a transparent plan of how by whom or when they are to be executed. Although encouraging changes can be observed, more effective action and structural change are needed. In addition, the results stipulate more research from several perspectives is needed to create an equitable cultural policy with participatory and intersectional practices.