Sami

The Sami are an indigenous people in Sápmi, a cultural region that spans northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Kola Peninsula of Russia. They have a long history in these regions, with their own languages, social structures, and traditional livelihoods. Population estimates vary; numbers commonly cited place the Sami in the tens of thousands, with an overall figure around 100,000 identifying as Sami.

Language and culture: The Sami languages form a branch of the Uralic language family. Northern Sami is the most widely spoken, with several other Sami languages including Inari, Skolt, Lule, and Southern Sami. Traditional livelihoods include reindeer herding, fishing, hunting, and crafts. The gákti is a traditional dress, and joik is a distinctive form of song.

Rights and representation: The Sami have faced assimilation and land dispossession under various governments. In recent decades, efforts have focused on cultural preservation and political representation. Separate Sami Parliaments exist in Norway (established 1989), Sweden (1993), and Finland (1996) to oversee Sami issues and language programs. The Sami are recognized as indigenous people in international law and participate in regional organizations like the International Sami Council.

Today, Sami communities pursue linguistic revitalization, education in Sami languages, and sustainable livelihoods, including reindeer herding. They also face challenges related to land rights, climate change, and integration with neighboring populations, while maintaining distinct cultural identities.