Finnicization
Finnicization is a term used in historical and linguistic contexts to describe processes by which Finnish language and culture became influential beyond the borders of Finland, or where Finnish linguistic and cultural practices spread within neighboring regions. It generally refers to shifts in language use, education, religion, media, and everyday culture that increased the visibility and prestige of Finnish among populations with related Finnic languages or within borderland communities. The concept is used to analyze cultural exchange as well as potential assimilation dynamics, rather than to denote a single formal policy.
Geographically, Finnicization is most often discussed in the context of the Finnish-Russian borderlands and the Baltic
Mechanisms of Finnicization include the spread of Finnish-language schooling and literature, the activities of cultural and
The term is distinct from Finlandization, a separate concept about aligning foreign policy with Finland. Finnicization