Finland ratified the convention of the European Commission over the protection of national minorities. The Finnish ambassador, Mr. Tom Grönberg, submitted the document in the European Commission in Strassbourg on Friday. 2.000 Saames (Laps) as well as Sinti and Roma are officially accepted . After the entry of Finland the convention can now go into effect on the first, of Feb’, 1998 in 12 participating countries. The countries are, Cyprus, Denmark, Maldavia, San Marino, Slovakia, Spain, Macedonia, Finland, Germany, Rumania, Estland and Hungary.

Minorities who live in traditional, residential districts are protected against discrimination. Support of their language and culture in schools, and in public life is guaranteed.