Evacuees’ Flag Day honors the hundreds of thousands of Finns who rebuilt their lives after the Winter War and Continuation War. More than 80 years later, the day reflects the strength of those who were forced to leave their homes and start again across the country.
More than 80 years ago, hundreds of thousands of Finns rebuilt their lives after the Winter War and Continuation War. Today is Evacuees’ Flag Day (Evakkojen päivä), honoring hundreds of thousands of evacuees.
Although not an official flag-flying day, the Ministry of the Interior encourages flag displays nationwide, aligning with the Karelian League’s founding date, April 20. The ministry has ordered government agencies and institutions to fly the flag.
During World War II, Finland lost large swathes of territory, from which, according to the Karelian League, about 440,000 people were permanently evacuated and nearly 200,000 temporarily displaced.
Among them were more than 200,000 children. As a result of the Winter War and the Continuation War, Finland permanently lost territories in Karelia, the outer archipelago of the Gulf of Finland, Salla, Kuusamo, and Petsamo and was forced to lease the Hanko and Porkkala regions for a fixed term.
Due to the Lapland War, the entire population of Northern Finland and the eastern parts of Suomussalmi was also temporarily evacuated.
A total of 11 percent of Finland’s population was permanently displaced, while about 16 percent of the population was evacuated overall. These evacuations had a nationwide impact, with municipalities and parishes playing a crucial role in providing assistance and support to the evacuees.
The inaugural observance of Evacuees’ Flag Day, marked by the display of flags, took place on April 20, 2025, initiated by the Karelian League.
Karelian evacuees and their descendants significantly contributed to Finnish society despite facing loss and forced relocation. Their resilience, community spirit and positive outlook helped them rebuild their lives and strengthen Finland. Evacuees’ Flag Day highlights how hope and resilience can revitalize society, according to Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen (Finns).
