Last year Finnish museums experienced an all-time record with more than 8.7 million visits. Although the number still is increasing, the forecast for 2025 is not looking as bright in terms of finances according to the “Museum barometer” survey, which was answered by 68 out of 195 Finnish museum directors.
Key findings from the survey include:
- 55% of the respondents believe that the museum's finances will weaken next year.
- A stark drop in economic optimism - only 4% believing the economy will strengthen, compared to 20% last year.
- 29% expect a reduction in exhibition production.
- 20% of municipally-funded museums have already implemented austerity measures, and 14% foresee further savings.
The main cause of these concerns is a proposed 9% cut in central government funding for museums, as suggested by the Finnish Ministry of Finance. With the future of government subsidies still uncertain, the once-promising development of museums now faces significant threats. The museum sector, which has enjoyed a period of growth, may soon be entering a more difficult phase as financial pressures mount.
"Museums have been record popular in Finland, but the museum boom may soon be over. Museums are now announcing a reduction in exhibitions, a reduction in opening hours and a reduction in staff. The number of visitors will certainly decrease if the Government's proposals for cuts are implemented to the extent proposed”, says Petra Havu, CEO of the Finnish Museums Association.
- Find more insights from the Museum barometer 2025 (in Finnish)
