Finland is making changes to its conscription rules to allow reservists who have completed military service in the border forces to patrol the border with Russia in case of a sudden wave of migrants. This decision comes after Finland closed its border with Russia in late November 2023 following an influx of around 900 asylum seekers from countries like Kenya, Morocco, Pakistan, Somalia, and Yemen. The Finnish government decided to close the border indefinitely and restrict maritime traffic to leisure boating due to concerns that Russia may be encouraging migrants to reach Finland by sea or over lakes. This move by Finland mirrors a similar situation at the border between Belarus and Poland in 2021, when Minsk pushed thousands of asylum seekers from the Middle East and Africa to try to enter the EU via the Polish border.
This strategy by Russia to send asylum seekers to Finland’s eastern border is seen as a pressure tactic on Helsinki, similar to the situation at the Belarus-Poland border in 2021. The changes to Finland’s conscription policies, allowing reservists to be called up to patrol the border with Russia in exceptional circumstances, will be put to a vote in parliament. Finland’s decision to strengthen its border security reflects the challenges posed by Russia’s actions and the need to safeguard its borders from potential threats. The move is part of Finland’s efforts to protect its sovereignty and ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
The closure of Finland’s border with Russia and the decision to restrict maritime traffic to leisure boating are proactive measures taken by the Finnish government to prevent any further influx of migrants orchestrated by Russia. By allowing reservists who have completed military service in the border forces to be called up for border patrols in exceptional circumstances, Finland is enhancing its border security capabilities and preparedness. This decision underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for effective border control measures to address any potential threats or challenges.
The experience of the influx of asylum seekers from various countries in November 2023 has prompted Finland to reassess its border security measures and make necessary adjustments to ensure the protection of its borders. By closing the border with Russia indefinitely and restricting maritime traffic, Finland is sending a clear message that it will not tolerate any attempts to exploit its borders for political purposes. The changes to Finland’s conscription rules reflect a proactive approach to addressing security concerns and protecting the country’s territorial integrity. As Finland faces external pressures and challenges, it is taking steps to strengthen its border defenses and ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
In conclusion, Finland’s decision to amend its conscription policies to allow reservists to help patrol the border with Russia in exceptional circumstances is a proactive measure to enhance border security and address potential threats. The closure of the border with Russia and restrictions on maritime traffic demonstrate Finland’s commitment to safeguarding its borders and protecting its sovereignty. By responding to the challenges posed by Russia’s actions and taking steps to strengthen its border defenses, Finland is prioritizing the safety and security of its citizens. This move reflects the country’s determination to uphold its integrity and manage border issues effectively in the face of external pressures.
