Government report on changes in the security environment

Abstract

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a fundamental change has taken place in the security and operating environment of Finland and Europe. This Government report to Parliament assesses changes in the operating and security environment and the effects of the changed security situation on the economy, resilience, security of supply, internal security, cyber security, hybrid influence activities and critical infrastructure.

The report complements the Government Report on Finnish Foreign and Security Policy, Government Defence Report, Government Report on Internal Security, and Government Report on EU Policy. Maintaining national room to manoeuvre and freedom of choice remain integral parts of Finland's foreign, security and defence policy. Finland retains the option of joining a military alliance and applying for NATO membership. Finland conducts its human rights-based foreign and security policy consistently and emphasises the importance of the international rules-based order and compliance with international law.

The report examines the development of national defence capability, the European Union as a security policy actor and closer bilateral cooperation with Sweden, Norway, other Nordic countries, the United States and the United Kingdom, and multilateral defence cooperation initiatives. Closer cooperation with NATO and the effects of Finland's possible NATO membership are also assessed.

In response to the changed security situation, Finland will continue active and proactive diplomacy, strengthen its defence capability and intensify cooperation with key partners. The importance to Finland’s security of maintaining resilience in society, national defence and internal security is highlighted.