Aaltola made a name for himself in Finnish politics for his insight as a television commentator on the Ukraine war. He emphasizes the urgency of a new foreign policy vision following Finland’s transition to NATO following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
early life
Aaltra spent his high school years in the United States in the late ’80s. Aaltola showed his early involvement in the political process, volunteering as a campaign worker during George H.W. Bush’s presidential campaign in the early 1990s.
He was a visiting professor at the University of Minnesota from 2006 to 2008, and has conducted research at the University of Cambridge, the Paris Institute of Sciences, and Johns Hopkins University in the United States.
Aaltra, who specializes in international politics at Tampere University, was an adjunct professor at Tallinn University from 2013 to 2023. He has published seven books, and his academic background contributes to his nuanced understanding of world affairs. Mr. Aaltola has extensive experience in foreign and security policy and works with the Finnish Secure Future Association.
political journey
Mr. Aaltola’s foray into politics is unconventional and marked by his unwavering confidence in offering a unique perspective. He dismissed his concerns about his own lack of political experience, insisting that “no one else has ever served as president for a day.”
In March 2014, Aaltola estimated that Finland could not join NATO without an understanding with Russia. He called this a “storm model” and suggested that Finland would need a green light from Russia, especially given Russia’s reluctance to join Finland in NATO. However, his position on Finland’s membership in NATO gradually changed, especially in the context of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which led him to support membership.
In 2019, Mr. Aaltola became Director of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs. Aaltra’s paper, “Rhythms, exceptions, and rules in international relations,” explored the European Union’s resilience in domestic crises, focusing on mad cow disease. His research extends to humanitarian politics and power dynamics, as evidenced in works such as The Western Spectacle of Governance and the Emergence of Humanitarian World Politics.
Mika Aaltola gained respect and gained public attention for her expert commentary on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, characterized by a direct and comforting communication style. Despite his outspokenness, Mr. Aaltola is perceived as a reassuring and trustworthy expert, and his direct approach to communication resonates with the public. But while Aaltra acknowledges the scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye, she sees it as an opportunity for individuals to gain insight into the personalities that influence their perspectives.
In the Ilta Sanomat poll of support for the presidential election conducted in April, Mika Aaltola received 35% support and came in third place in the race, despite not showing any interest in the presidential race. . Aaltola had previously believed that there was no way he could be elected president without being affiliated with a political party, but the support he received has changed his mind about running for president. He came out on top in the paper’s presidential poll in late October, but recent polls suggest his approval ratings are declining.
2024 presidential election
Mika Aaltola’s presidential candidacy represents a shift towards a more proactive and strategic approach in Finnish foreign policy, with a commitment to national values, equality and sustainable development.
Aaltola emphasizes the need for a president to have a strong focus on foreign policy and to be aware of world events and their impact on Finland. Mr. Aaltra’s foreign policy proficiency is also demonstrated by his established connections with foreign officials in various countries, including the United States, Germany, and France.
Mr. Aaltra points to instability in Europe, particularly in Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea region, and attributes this instability to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He has advocated strong support for Ukraine and increased defense spending to 3% of gross domestic product (GDP), marking a departure from the country’s traditionally conservative stance.
To deal with the complex geopolitical situation with Russia, Aaltra emphasizes the need for immediate action and envisions the creation of a zone of stable states from the Arctic Ocean to the Black Sea.
Mr. Aaltra highlighted the binding relationships China has built with several countries and highlighted concerns about China’s growing influence. He proposes moving his production back to the West to open up new markets in Finland.
When it comes to sustainable development and economic growth, Aaltra emphasizes innovation as a key driver. Finland’s focus on clean energy, digitalization and green transition places it at the forefront of the world. Although the president does not determine the nation’s economy, Aaltra believes the president has a role to play in supporting companies that are critical to addressing environmental issues.
politics and personality
Mika Aaltola’s politics fall on the more conservative side of the spectrum. Aaltola considers himself a supporter of the Nordic welfare state, emphasizing equality, protection of minorities, and pride in Finnishness and nationalism. His stance prioritizes the nation’s well-being over partisan interests, a central theme of his presidential campaign.
Aaltola boldly criticizes corruption within party politics, highlighting the links between political appointments between different parties.
He emphasizes the importance of mutual acceptance and understanding, focusing on love, acceptance, and Christian virtues. Aaltola recognizes the important role of the president as a values leader in Finnish politics.
The presidential candidate is deeply rooted in his Christian faith and finds comfort and inspiration in prayer, especially night prayer, and sees it as a way to foster community. Beyond doctrinal debates, he emphasizes the important role of the church as a unifying force in difficult times.
Despite enduring bullying at school due to her shy and introverted personality, Aaltra has previously reflected on how these experiences helped her build resilience. He also spoke about his battle with chronic illness and emphasized the importance of fortitude and determination.
assignment
Mr. Aaltra has often been criticized for his arrogant statements, which he claims are misunderstandings. One such incident occurred during an interview with Yleisradio after the press conference, in which he commented on the election situation: It’s like an obligation to run for office. He clarified that his own comments about his knowledge, skill and courage were not directed at his fellow candidates.
Aaltra faced backlash during the presidential campaign for comments he made about media exposure and buying advertising space. His claims suggesting a correlation between media approaches and favorable coverage related to advertising space have raised ethical concerns and sparked debate about journalistic independence.
Presidential candidate Mika Aaltola has come under fire for participating in a conservative Christian evangelical festival organized by SLEY, the Finnish Lutheran Evangelical Association, which opposes women in the priesthood and homosexuality. Reactions on social media questioned his position and criticized its association with his views against homosexuality and women in the priesthood. In response, Mr. Aaltola defended his involvement and made clear his position in support of female clergy and affirming tolerance of diverse views.
Aaltola’s visit to Turkey in February 2023 sparked controversy in the country, as suspicions arose that the researcher had invaded the premises of political decision-makers. Drawing insights from the visit, Aaltola recommended that Finland, unlike Sweden, demonstrate its ability to process NATO applications on its own.
Aaltola’s adjunct professorship at Tallinn University became the focus of controversy as students expressed dissatisfaction with his irregular attendance. In the wake of this incident, Mr. Aaltola resigned, citing the weight of his responsibility.
interesting quotes
“The media called and asked if we had the resources to buy advertising space. They made it very clear that it could get other attention in newspapers and on channels. Of course. [it isn’t done] Explicitly, but by implying that this kind of coupling is possible. ”
“It is clear that that is the basic situation in Turkey. As far as Finland is concerned, we do not see any problems. As for Sweden, the problem appears to have been caused by Sweden itself. Moreover, Turkey is subject to Finnish laws. I think they’re in better shape. As for Sweden, I’m taking a wait-and-see attitude.”
“There were whispers in the corridors of power that if we drew attention to the Nordic and Baltic threats, people would not have the courage to invest in Finland. Or look at energy dependence as geopolitics.”
“We have reduced the number of abortions to a third of what they were in the 70s. (…) Living conditions are difficult and in Finland a woman’s right to her body and health is a very important freedom . We’ve had good results. Why do we need to change the system so much?”
“If we are in a strong position, we can negotiate with Russia. This is a lesson about the Finnish era. It is not worth putting ourselves in a position where Russia can exploit us.”
“What is left and right? Apparently, many candidates are aiming to be somewhere in the middle. This is the best way for them to move things forward because the majority can relate to it in some way.” It’s tactically wise.”
“There are broader processes going on in the background in that area. Iran is one of the major sponsors of such cross-border violence and a supporter of Hamas.”
“Boundaries exist to set boundaries. You should take in as much as you need and can integrate, but no more.”
HT