The Finnish people went to the polls to elect a new president, a position that has gained significance due to growing tensions with Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.
While the president’s authority is limited, the head of state, who also serves as the supreme commander of Finland’s armed forces, plays a role in shaping foreign policy in collaboration with the government. The changing geopolitical landscape in Europe will be the primary concern for the winner.
Two politicians, former conservative prime minister Alexander Stubb and ex-foreign minister Pekka Haavisto of the Green party, are leading the pack of nine candidates. Just behind them is the far-right Finns party candidate, Jussi Halla-aho, who experts believe could make it to the second round.
The polls opened at 9am (0700 GMT) and will close at 8pm.
Hannu Kuusitie, a voter, emphasized the need for a president with “leadership” and “humanity,” as well as the ability to be tough when necessary.
Relations between Moscow and Helsinki deteriorated following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, prompting Finland to join the western military alliance Nato in April 2023.
By August 2023, Finland observed an influx of migrants entering through its eastern border without visas. Helsinki claimed Moscow was pushing the migrants in a hybrid attack to destabilize it, and Finland closed its eastern border in November.
In a final televised debate, Stubb accused Russia of using humans as a weapon, while Haavisto stressed the need to send Russia a clear message that such actions cannot continue.
In the post-cold war period, Helsinki maintained good relations with Moscow. Incumbent President Sauli Niinisto, who is stepping down after serving two six-year terms, once prided himself on his close ties with the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, before becoming one of his most trenchant critics.
All the presidential candidates champion both Finland’s independence and its new role as a Nato member, emphasizing self-sufficiency and an active contribution to building a shared European defense and Nordic cooperation.
For more information, you can visit www.theguardian.com
2024-01-28 04:01:48
Source from www.theguardian.com