The Finnish government has decided that the border crossing points on the land border between Finland and Russia will remain closed.
IT WILL NOT BE POSSIBLE to submit applications for international protection at border crossing points on the land border between Finland and Russia. The government made the decision at its meeting on January 11, 2024.
On December 14 last year, the government decided to temporarily close the border crossing points on Finland’s eastern border for one month and to centralize the submission of applications for international protection. The aim was to stop instrumentalized migration at Finland’s eastern border.
Finnish Interior Minister Mari Rantanen (Finnish) said at a press conference on Wednesday that the increased activity on the eastern border was probably related to Finland’s membership in NATO and its strong support for Ukraine. But according to Rantanen, it is not possible to speculate on Russia’s behalf.
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“Based on the information gathered by the authorities, it is very likely that Russia’s hybrid influence activities will resume and expand, as we have seen before. Therefore, we consider it necessary to keep the eastern border closed, Interior Minister Mari Rantanen said in an official statement.
Read also: Finland Closes All East Border Crossings But One
International crime is also involved in this phenomenon.
The risk of the resumption of instrumentalized migration at the eastern border poses a serious threat to national security and public order in Finland. According to the authorities, it is clear that the Russian authorities or other actors have facilitated instrumentalized migration. International crime is also involved in this phenomenon.
According to the authorities, there are still migrants in the neighboring area waiting for the eastern border to open. There are also more people in the migrants’ countries of origin who want to migrate to Finland.
The government, in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior and other authorities, will regularly review the content and scope of the decision as the situation develops. The decision will be revoked or amended if it is no longer necessary to prevent a serious threat to national security or public order. The Ministry of the Interior is also considering alternative ways to put an end to the phenomenon.
The land border between Finland and Russia will remain closed until February 11, 2024.
Source: finlandtoday.fi
As a Finnish citizen, I support the government’s decision to keep the eastern border closed for security reasons. It’s crucial to prevent any potential threats and maintain control over who enters the country. Safety should always be the top priority.
It’s important to prioritize national security, and the decision to keep the eastern border closed seems justified given the circumstances. The concerns about Russia’s hybrid influence activities are valid, and ensuring the safety of the country should be the top priority.
As a Finn, I support the government’s decision to keep the eastern border closed. It’s crucial to prevent any potential risks and maintain control. Let’s trust the authorities and their assessments regarding the situation.
Do you think keeping the border closed is the most effective way to address the issue of instrumentalized migration and international crime at the Finnish-Russian border?
Yes, I believe maintaining the closed border is crucial in combating the issues of instrumentalized migration and international crime at the Finnish-Russian border. It helps in controlling unauthorized entry and prevents potential security threats. Alternative measures should also be explored to ensure comprehensive border security.
It’s crucial that the Finnish government has taken this decisive action to keep the eastern border closed. The potential risks posed by Russia’s hybrid influence activities cannot be ignored, and safeguarding Finland’s security is of utmost importance.
As a frequent traveler to Finland, I understand the government’s decision to keep the eastern border closed for security reasons. It’s important to prioritize the safety of the country and its citizens above all else.
It’s concerning that the Finnish government has decided to keep the border closed, impacting those seeking international protection. It’s important to balance security measures with humanitarian needs.
It’s concerning that the Finnish government has decided to keep the border crossing points closed, especially in light of potential international crime and Russia’s hybrid influence activities. I hope they have considered all factors before making this decision.
It’s understandable that the Finnish government is taking this precaution to keep the border closed given the potential risks involved. Safety should always be the top priority.
I find it concerning that the Finnish government has decided to keep the border crossing points closed on the eastern border with Russia. While I understand the need for security measures, it is important to consider the impact on individuals seeking international protection. It’s a complex situation, and I hope that a balanced solution can be found.
I find it concerning that the Finnish government has chosen to keep the border crossing points closed, particularly for the submission of applications for international protection. It’s essential to balance security concerns with humanitarian obligations. Let’s hope that the situation improves soon.