Samiske

Samiske refers to anything relating to the Sámi people, their languages, culture, and region. The Sámi are an indigenous people of the Arctic and Subarctic, traditionally inhabiting Sápmi, a geographical area that spans the northern parts of Norway, Sweden and Finland, and the Kola Peninsula in Russia. The Sámi population is estimated at around 100,000 to 125,000, with the largest communities in Norway and Sweden.

Languages and identity: The Sámi languages form a branch of the Uralic language family. Northern Sámi is the most widely spoken, followed by Inari Sámi, Skolt Sámi, and other varieties. Many Sámi are bilingual, using Norwegian, Swedish, or Finnish in addition to a Sámi language. Language vitality varies by region, and revitalization efforts include Sámi-language schooling, media, and cultural programs.

Culture and livelihoods: Traditional livelihoods include reindeer herding for some Sámi communities, along with fishing and gathering. Duodji refers to Sámi handicrafts, and gákti denotes traditional clothing worn in ceremonies and daily life. Joik is a distinctive traditional vocal form that remains an important cultural expression for many Sámi people.

Governance and rights: Sámi communities are represented in national contexts through Sámi Parliaments in Norway (established 1989), Sweden (1993), and Finland (1996), which provide advisory capacity on issues affecting Sámi culture, language, and land rights. Russia has Sámi communities with a smaller institutional presence.

Issues: Key concerns include land and environmental rights, the impact of resource development, language maintenance, and the protection and transmission of traditional knowledge amid changing social and climatic conditions.