Nocturnal Being(s): Foreign Wanderers in the Precarious Weather-Scape of the North

Hakemuksen tiivistelmä

This PhD project explores the cultural and social nighttime practices of foreign skilled youth—both students and employees—in the small towns of Joensuu, Finland, and Tromsø, Norway. These areas present a unique paradox: while Nordic countries are often ranked among the happiest in the world, they are also characterized by long, dark winters, which can lead to feelings of isolation and depression, referred to as "kaamosmasennus" (polar night depression). These regions, facing population decline, increasingly rely on young, resourceful individuals who must adapt to both the challenging climate and social dynamics. This study investigates how these youth navigate nighttime spaces, blending their cultural backgrounds with local customs, such as "sisu" (Finnish resilience) and "hygge" (Danish coziness), to cope with emotional and psychological challenges. The project focuses on their nocturnal practices and how they create "cosy" atmospheres that foster comfort, socialization, and community. It builds on my Master’s research on migrant communities in Vienna, broadening the scope to include local youth and mobility in Nordic towns. Key research questions include: how diverse cultural backgrounds influence the creation of welcoming nighttime spaces, how intercultural exchanges impact community integration, and how nighttime practices evolve as youth acclimate to the Nordic lifestyle. The study utilizes concepts of affect and atmospheres to analyze emotional and sensory experiences within urban nightscapes. Through a participatory approach, participants will engage as co-researchers, sharing their experiences through walking interviews and observations in settings like saunas, youth centers, and public spaces. The findings could inform policies that foster social integration, urban planning, and cross-cultural dialogue, contributing to more inclusive and supportive communities in the European North.