JultikaUniversity of Oulu repository

The purpose of this thesis is to explore the integration process of Somalis in Finland and the challenges and opportunities that they face in their daily lives. Another objective of this study was to find out about the role of educated and integrated Somalis concerning sustainable integration in Finland. The thesis also discusses the theories of migration, integration and social capital in relation with the migration and settlement of Somalis in Finland. The empirical data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews. The target group was seven educated and integrated Somalis that are living in Helsinki and its surrounding areas. They were asked two main research questions: What are the perceptions of educated and integrated Somalis concerning sustainable integration in Finland? And what could be their role in the integration process? The chosen analysis method was qualitative content analysis. The research findings revealed that the integration of Somalis in Finland started with hardship and difficulty; and up to this day there have been major obstacles that are preventing the community to integrate. Also the study revealed that there are many issues that might help the community to integrate in Finland, such as Finnish language and educational skills, open debate and reconciliation between the community and native Finns, collective effort from the community for integration and cooperation between Finnish authorities and Somalis in Finland. Furthermore, it was concluded that the role of educated and integrated Somalis is to reform, teach, lead and be role models for their community towards sustainable integration in Finland. Finally, the thesis highlighted the alarming situation of Somali community in Finland and pointed out how the community desperately needs urgent solutions from educated and integrated Somalis and authorities in Finland.