In a significant move, Finland has announced the indefinite closure of its borders with Russia, signaling a departure from its previous approach to managing border dynamics. The decision, announced by the Finnish Ministry of the Interior on Thursday (April 4), marks a continuation of the country’s efforts to address security concerns and manage migration flows.
This latest development follows a series of border closures and reopenings over the past five months, underscoring Finland’s fluid border policies. Initially ordered in February with an expiration date set for April 14, the closure has been extended indefinitely, reflecting the government’s determination to address ongoing challenges effectively.
Besides the measures, Finland has also taken steps to restrict maritime traffic at certain ports, including Haapasaari Island, the Nuijamaa port, and Santio Island, effective April 15. This move aims to preempt any potential influx of migrants attempting to enter Finland via sea routes, a concern heightened during the spring months.
The government’s decision to maintain border closures stems from concerns about the possibility of irregular migration from Russia expanding to maritime channels. Authorities warn that such a scenario could pose significant risks to individuals attempting the perilous journey and strain resources dedicated to maritime search and rescue operations.
Under the indefinite closure, asylum seekers will continue to face barriers to accessing border crossing points, with limited exceptions for specific maritime and air traffic entry points. This measure underscores Finland’s commitment to maintaining stringent border controls while managing the complexities of migration and asylum processes.
The Finnish government’s decision reflects broader concerns about the escalation of “instrumentalized migration” from Russia, which poses a perceived threat to national security and public order. Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen emphasized the government’s stance on viewing this as a long-term challenge, with potential risks of increased pressure and exploitation along the border.
The Finnish-Russian border, spanning over 1,300 kilometers, presents unique challenges due to its geographical features. It primarily traverses through taiga forests and lacks natural delineations. Despite Finland’s recent inclusion in NATO, security concerns persist along the border, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard national interests.
The announcement has drawn attention from rights groups, including the Council of Europe, which have raised concerns about the treatment of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants amidst the border closures. Finnish authorities have accused Moscow of orchestrating the influx of undocumented asylum seekers to border posts, a claim vehemently denied by the Kremlin.
As both countries navigate the complexities of border management amid evolving geopolitical dynamics, stakeholders worldwide await Moscow’s immediate reaction to Finland’s decision. This decision has sparked global concerns and raised questions about the future of their bilateral relations.