In recent years, Finland and other European countries have been grappling with the impact of significant global trends, including globalisation and an ageing population. Consequently, Finland, like many other nations, has become increasingly reliant on migrant labour. In response to this, policies have been developed to attract foreign nationals to work in Finland.

Background research conducted across multiple sources in Finland and other European countries has shed light on the experiences of Africans and people of African descent in the labour market. This research has revealed that these individuals often face racial discrimination and encounter additional hurdles in their pursuit of employment opportunities. This thesis examines the experiences of Black people in the Finnish labour market, focusing on the relationship between race and labour market access. By conducting qualitative research and employing a critical race theory framework, this study aims to understand how race influences employability, labour market outcomes, and the challenges faced by Black people in the Finnish context. The research was conducted in collaboration with Think Africa ry (registered association).

The data collection involved twelve semi-structured interviews and ten individual interview questions with ten employed black people. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. The interviewees shared their experiences of being black in the Finnish labour market, including their perceptions of the impact of race on their employability. The findings of this study reveal various experiences of racial hierarchy, a continuum of favouritism, racial ghettos, and the normalisation of whiteness in the Finnish labour market. An individual's racial background and social network can significantly influence their labour market outcomes.

Overall, the study emphasizes the need for greater race consciousness and awareness among employers and policymakers to address racial disparities in the labour market. The findings call for the implementation of policies aimed at promoting equity and inclusion for Black people in the Finnish labour market. Further research on the intersectional experiences of different racialized groups in Finland could provide valuable insights into the broader implications of race on employment outcomes in the country.