Knowledge and discussion are the themes for this year’s annual Independence Day Gala, the office of President Sauli Niinistö announced on Wednesday.
"Finland’s strength has always been the ability to work together, making room for different opinions and using knowledge in diverse ways," Niinistö was quoted as saying in a statement.
The president’s office said that technological development has changed people’s relationship with information, which is now more accessible and the threshold for engaging in debate is lower. On the other hands, the tone of national debate has hardened, the statement noted.
"Everyone can help create a considerate discussion culture, promote confidence in scientific knowledge and expertise and, most importantly, respect truth. This builds trust," the president added.
The president’s office has already begun sending out invitations to this year’s formal reception. Niinistö and his wife Jenni Haukio have invited a total of 1,700 guests. According to tradition, guests will include war veterans and Finland’s wartime medical volunteers, known as Lottas.
Last year the theme of the gala was the environment. The event is broadcast live from the Presidential Palace and is one of the most-watched television programmes of the year.