Yearbook 1996
Aland. For Aland, in 1996, the island had to see itself cut off from Finland and the mainland. The EU explained during the year that the special agreement that the island obtained in connection with Finland’s entry into the Union meant that Aland. Was perceived as a third country vis-à-vis both the EU and Finland, with the result that customs stations had to be established. According to a government bill, the island, as a third country, would also be taxed differently. The changes were criticized from the Åland Islands as they were considered to hit the island population very hard.