Finland's Security Solution, Past, Present and Future
Abstract
According to the Program of Prime Minister Paavo Lipponen's second Government the aim of Finland's foreign and security policy is to strengthen the country's security and international influence as well as to promote the country's interests in a world of increasing cooperation. The Government's main objective is the consolidation of relations with Russia, the Nordic countries and the Baltic States. It is a stated fact that the cornerstone of Finland's security policy is a credible defense and non-alliance. However, the Government is also strongly committed to a further strengthening of the European Union's (EU) Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and the EU's ability to react to crises with its own military power. The three Baltic States see NATO membership as a way to guarantee their safety and promote prosperity for their countries. Many other Eastern European countries are seeking similar solutions or have already joined NATO. Russia, on one hand, fiercely opposes NATO's enlargement eastward, while on the other hand is seeking cooperation with the EU. Sweden and Finland are the only Nordic countries, which are not members of NATO. The Government's current written security policy on non-alliance is somewhat inconsistent with actual practice. Therefore, to guarantee Finland's security in the future, it must choose whether to remain a non-aligned member of the EU striving for a militarily strong European Union, or seek membership in NATO. In deciding the future course of action, Finland must take into consideration the contradictory objectives and security policies of its neighboring countries. The thinking and reasoning of the nation's leaders and common citizens cannot be understood without knowing the history. The fierce, desperate, and often frustrating experiences of the past provide an understanding of the viewpoints and choices for Finland today.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA391216
Entities
People
- Simo Alho
Organizations
- United States Army War College