Finland's parliament recently passed a law granting border guards the authority to block asylum seekers crossing from Russia, following an influx of over 1,300 individuals that led Helsinki to close its border. The Finnish government has accused Russia of manipulating migration by encouraging migrants from countries like Syria and Somalia to cross the border, a claim that the Kremlin has refuted.
Helsinki believes that Moscow is facilitating these crossings in response to Finland's decision to join NATO in support of Ukraine against Russia's invasion. Despite the law conflicting with Finland's international human rights obligations, the right-wing government led by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo views it as essential to prevent future arrivals.
Orpo emphasized that the legislation sends a strong message to both Russia and Finland's allies, underscoring the country's commitment to safeguarding its security and that of the EU border. The Finnish Border Guard reported a single illegal border crossing on Thursday, with the individual applying for asylum upon apprehension.
Interior Minister Mari Rantanen stated that no timeline has been set for reopening the border crossings with Russia. Finland's actions align with similar measures taken by other European nations like Poland and Lithuania to impede migrant flows from Russia and Belarus, a Russian ally.
The bill received 167 votes in favor, 31 against, and one abstention, surpassing the two-thirds majority required for passage in the 200-seat parliament. Orpo cautioned migrants against attempting to enter Europe through Russia, warning them against relying on smugglers.
He emphasized that Finland is committed to protecting its borders and that Russia's orchestrated access to the borders will not grant entry to Finland or Europe. Moscow has denied any such intentions, with the Russian embassy in Helsinki yet to respond to requests for comment.
