Suomi-areena draws 60,000 visitors in Pori

The Suomi-areena discussion forum in Pori attracted around 60,000 visitors this year, an 11 percent increase from 2025, according to organisers cited by Yle.

A highlight was the appearance of former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau at Raatihuoneenpuisto park, which drew approximately 5,000 people. A talk by French human rights activist David Pelicot and a session with Finnish president’s spouse Suzanne Innes-Stubb each gathered around 3,000 attendees.

Now in its 20th year, the event shifted closer to the Kokemäenjoki riverbank, away from its previous locations at Pori’s market square and pedestrian street. Organisers praised the new layout, with event director Antti Lehtinen noting strong positive feedback.

The official programme featured 252 sessions and 844 speakers, alongside additional private invitational events hosted by various groups in the city.