Who we are?

The Cooperative Organization of the Indigenous Sámi of Finland (Suomen alkuperäisten saamelaisten yhteistyöjärjestö ry) is a collaborative body representing the Sámi villages (Lapinkylät) of the former Kemi Lapland region. It represents the Forest Sámi Indigenous people. Here, you can find more information about the Forest Sámi and our traditional homeland.

We strive to protect the Forest Sámi and Forest Lapp identity of the original Sámi of the Sámi villages in Finnish Lapland, and to preserve the culture and identity of the Sámi communities in these villages, ensuring their continuity for future generations. In addition, we promote the revitalization, restoration, and reclamation of our own Sámi language.

We advocate on behalf of all descendants of Forest, Mountain, and Fisher Sámi from Sámi villages (Lapinkylät) who identify as Sámi. Member associations of the Cooperative Organization of the Indigenous Sámi of Finland include: Kuivasalmi Sámi Village Association (Kuivasalmen Lapinkyläyhdistys ry), Sodankylä Sámi Village Association (Sodankylän Lapinkylä yhdistys ry), Kuolajärvi Sámi Village Association (Kuolajärven Lapinkylä ry), Peltojärvi Sámi Village Association (Peltojärven Lapinkylä yhdistys ry) and Keminkylä and Sompio Sámi Village Association (Keminkylän ja Sompion Lapinkyläyhdistys ry).