Finland has introduced stricter regulations concerning its border with Russia, driven by escalating security concerns. In a recent statement, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo confirmed that the country has no intention of reopening its border with Russia in the foreseeable future, following its recent closure aimed at curbing instrumentalized migration.
In an effort to reinforce national security, Finland passed a new law last month that specifically targets asylum seekers attempting to enter the country via Russia. The legislation empowers border guards to prevent asylum seekers from crossing into Finland and denies them the right to appeal such decisions. This measure is set to remain in effect for a 12-month period.
According to Finnish authorities, this law is designed to counteract controlled migration tactics and should not be viewed as a broader policy on migration or asylum. Finnish Interior Minister Mari Rantanen emphasized that the legislation is focused solely on addressing the issue of orchestrated migration.
However, the new measures have sparked controversy, with several human rights organizations expressing concern. Critics argue that the law does not address the root issues in the region and effectively violates the right to freedom of movement by closing all crossing points along Finland's 1,300-kilometer border with Russia.