Finland to Withdraw from Landmine Treaty and Increase Defense Spending

Helsinki, Finland – In a significant policy shift, Finland has announced plans to withdraw from a global convention banning anti-personnel landmines and to increase its defense spending in response to heightened security concerns over Russia. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo disclosed these changes during a press conference held on Tuesday.

Withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention

Finland, a member of NATO, aims to exit the 1997 Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use of anti-personnel landmines. Prime Minister Orpo stated that while there is currently no immediate military threat to Finland, the long-term risks posed by Russia necessitate a reassessment of the country's defense strategies. The Prime Minister explained, "Withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention will give us the possibility to prepare for the changes in the security environment in a more versatile way."

Finland shares the longest border with Russia among all NATO countries and has been closely observing neighboring nations like Poland and the Baltic states, which recently announced their own withdrawals from the treaty. As a result of this move, Finland will be able to stockpile landmines, ensuring readiness for potential future challenges.

Increase in Defense Spending

Alongside the treaty withdrawal, Finland is set to boost its defense budget to at least 3% of its gross domestic product (GDP) by the year 2029. This new financial commitment includes an additional allocation of 3 billion euros (approximately $3.24 billion), marking an increase from a current military spending level of 2.41% for 2024. President Alexander Stubb echoed Orpo’s statements on social media, stating that this adjustment is part of Finland's commitment to bolster European defense capabilities. “This is a part of Finland’s contribution to Europe taking greater responsibility for our own defense,” he remarked.

Context and Implications

These announcements come amid rising tensions in Europe, particularly due to Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Finland's military history reflects a strong commitment to defense, playing a crucial role in the country's strategic decisions since its accession to NATO in 2023. The shift away from decades of non-alignment follows heightened concerns regarding potential Russian aggression.

Agriculture and Forestry Minister Sari Essayah emphasized that Finland would employ landmines responsibly, viewing them as a necessary deterrent in a changing security landscape. The treaty’s withdrawal will require parliamentary approval, a process that is anticipated to gain support from both government and opposition parties.

Historical Background

Finland previously destroyed over one million landmines post-2012 and became the last European Union state to sign the Ottawa Treaty. The treaty culminated from international efforts aiming to promote disarmament after the Cold War. Anti-landmine advocacy has historically received recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to campaigners in 1997. While anti-personnel landmines are designed to prevent enemy movement, they have also been responsible for extensive civilian casualties, posing risks long after conflicts have ended. As Finland embarks on this new defense strategy, the implications for regional security and humanitarian concerns remain to be seen.

The government's upcoming steps will likely shape Finland's defense posture and further influence security dynamics in Northern Europe.