Although Finland has maintained a non-aligned stance for many years, it is at a crucial crossroads as it enters a new era in foreign and security policy. In the recent presidential election, Alexander Stubbe narrowly won the top spot in the first round, setting the stage for a runoff against Pekka Haavisto. This political showdown has important implications not only for Finland but also for the broader geopolitical situation following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Stubbe, a centrist candidate and former prime minister, emphasizes his pro-European and fiscally conservative stance.
Following Finland’s recent accession to NATO, he is positioning himself not only as a candidate for Finland’s presidency, but also as a Western leader aligned on foreign policy with countries such as the United States, Britain and its Nordic neighbors. His victory would mark a marked change in Finland’s traditionally neutral position and signal a more active role within the Western defense alliance. On the other side of the ballot is Haavisto, a member of the liberal Green Party and a human rights activist. If Haavisto wins, he will become Finland’s first openly gay head of state. His emphasis on human rights and peace negotiations suggests a nuanced approach to foreign policy, in contrast to the robust stance seen in Mr. Stubb’s rhetoric.
Voter reactions to these candidates reflect divided sentiment within Finnish society. Mr. Stubb’s appeal lies in his internationalism and skill in foreign relations. His supporters believe he has what it takes to navigate the complexities of the Ukraine war and its fallout. But there is skepticism, with some critics questioning Mr. Stubb’s commitment to representing the public over self-interest. Conversely, Haavisto is gaining support for his record as a human rights defender and peace negotiator. His left-liberal views resonate with those seeking a more nuanced diplomatic approach to foreign relations. But the recent hardening of the discourse, particularly on Russia, poses a challenge for Haavisto, who is trying to balance liberal values with the demands of the current discourse for a more hardline stance.
Finland isn’t the only place at stake. As tensions rise between Finland and Russia, the next president will play a key role in determining the country’s response. Despite their different positions, both candidates share the stance of supporting Ukraine and advocating measures against Russia.
This unity on important geopolitical issues underlines Finland’s commitment to its evolving role on the international stage. As the campaign unfolded, it became clear that the candidates were aligning their positions with the prevailing discourse. Haavisto, known for his liberal leanings, feels he is being forced to take a tougher stance on Russia to maintain credibility in the current political climate. This shift reflects the challenges faced by left-wing liberals in a landscape dominated by right-wing conservatives.