Finland's ties with neighbouring Russia deteriorate in wake of conflict

Summary

The closure of Finland's border with Russia, initiated last November, has led to a significant drop in asylum seekers, with only a few making it across since then. Allegations have arisen that Russia is orchestrating immigration by facilitating the movement of migrants to the border, a claim Russian officials deny. The Finnish government defends the closure as a measure for national security, while refugee charities express concern over the humanitarian implications. As tensions between Finland and Russia escalate, many Finnish citizens, including those with dual nationality, feel trapped in a deteriorating situation, reflecting a broader climate of mistrust.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The highway between Finland and Russia, previously bustling with over 1.2 million border crossings annually, is now empty due to border closures since November 2022.
• 🔒 Finland is investing 440 million to secure its eastern frontier amidst accusations that Russia is weaponizing immigration.
• 🚶‍♂️ Fewer than 100 asylum applicants crossed the Russian border into Finland in the first half of 2023, a stark decline from previous numbers.
• 🚫 The border closure is unprecedented since the 1940s and is currently indefinite, with strict security measures in place.
• ⚠️ Concerns remain about potential orchestrated immigration operations by Russia, prompting Finland to maintain high preparedness levels.
• 🤝 Human rights advocates argue that the border closure undermines the right to seek asylum, emphasizing the need for individual assessments.
• 🔍 The Finnish government claims the new border security measures are essential for national security and sovereignty.
• 📉 Public sentiment in Finland has turned negative towards Russia, especially following the invasion of Ukraine.
• 👥 Dual citizens of Finland and Russia feel like collateral damage in the escalating tensions, affecting their mobility and travel costs.
• 🗣️ Many Finnish citizens believe Russia benefits from the closed border as it limits escape routes for those fleeing conscription.

Q & A

What has happened to the highway mentioned in the script?

The highway, previously busy with over 1.2 million border crossings annually, is now empty due to the closure of the border with Russia last November.

What is the purpose of Finland's 440 million scheme?

The scheme aims to secure Finland's eastern frontier amid concerns about Russia's alleged use of immigration as a weapon.

What accusations have been made against Russia regarding immigration?

It is claimed that Russia has been facilitating the movement of people, particularly young men from unstable regions, to the Finnish border to seek asylum in the EU.

What were the asylum applicant statistics on the Russian border in 2023?

In the first half of 2023, there were fewer than 100 asylum applicants, compared to 522 in a single week in November 2022 before the border closure.

How has the Finnish government responded to the closure of the border?

The Finnish government states that the new border security measures are intended to safeguard national security and sovereignty while seeking EU-level solutions to combat instrumentalized migration.

What concerns do refugee charities have regarding the border closure?

Refugee charities are worried about individuals in need of asylum who are now unable to use the eastern border, as the closure raises legal and humanitarian issues.

What restrictions are in place at the border zone?

The border zone is closed to all but essential personnel, and residents must have special permits to enter.

What historical context is provided regarding the border's closure?

This is the first time the border has been closed since the 1940s, reflecting tensions heightened by the invasion of Ukraine.

How do dual Russian-Finnish citizens feel about the current situation?

They express feelings of being collateral damage, caught in the worsening relations between the two countries, which complicates their travel and daily lives.

What sentiment do many Finns share regarding Russia's reaction to the border closure?

Many Finns believe that Russia benefits from the closure, as it limits exit routes for those trying to flee conscription, while Russia views the closure as hasty and anti-Russian.