Ammattikielet

Ammattikielet, literally “professional languages,” refer to the foreign language skills employed specifically for work-related communication. The concept is most common in Finland, where a legal framework defines the requirements for customers’ rights to receive assistance in languages other than Finnish or Swedish.

The idea developed in the 1990s when Finland opened its economy to European partners and demanded better customer service for the growing immigrant population. The Act on the Equality between Ethnic and Language Groups (1996) mandated that public and private enterprises provide assistance in selected languages when demanded by customers. The list of ‘ammattikielet’ is periodically updated by the Ministry of Justice and the Finnish Equality Ombudsman.

In practice, ammattikielet are taught at the secondary school level, within university language programmes, and in vocational training. Schools often offer courses in French, German, English, Arabic, and increasingly in languages of newer immigrant communities such as Polish or Kurdish. In the business sector, professionals in international trade, engineering, tourism, and IT are encouraged to master at least one of the listed languages. Moreover, many large firms offer in‑house language courses to improve staff competence, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and compliance with legislation.

Ammattikielet are distinct from lingua franca or standard foreign languages in that they are specifically linked to professional contexts and a legal requirement to use them at the point of contact. Their usage is measured by the number of customers requesting assistance and the availability of trained staff.

The trend in Finland and other Nordic countries points toward increasing diversification of required languages, reflecting migration patterns and global business ties. Regular assessment of the listed languages and support for teachers’ professional development are essential to maintaining effective customer service and upholding equal rights.