Friday July 12, 2024
Parliament vote comes amid accusations of Russia weaponizing migration, impacting Somali asylum seekers and highlighting Finland's border security challenges.
FILE - Finnish Border Guards escort the migrants at the international border crossing at Salla, northern Finland, November 23, 2023. Lehtikuva/Jussi Nukari via REUTERS
HELSINKI, Finland (HOL) — Finland's parliament is set to vote on a bill on Friday that would grant border guards the power to turn back asylum seekers crossing from Russia, following the arrival of over 1,300 people, which forced Helsinki to close its border. Among those affected are numerous Somali migrants, who find themselves caught in the geopolitical struggle between Finland and Russia.
Finland has accused neighbouring Russia of weaponizing migration by encouraging migrants from countries such as Syria and Somalia to cross the border, a claim the Kremlin denies. Helsinki believes Moscow is promoting these crossings in retaliation for Finland joining NATO and supporting Ukraine against Russia's invasion.
In February 2024, Finnish authorities reported thousands of migrants attempting to enter via Russia, with Somali citizens among them. Russia has been accused of allowing Somalis to cross the border without Schengen entry rights, exacerbating the crisis and leaving many Somali asylum seekers in a precarious situation, vulnerable to the political machinations of larger powers.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo's right-wing government argues that the bill is essential to prevent future arrivals, even though it may conflict with international human rights commitments. No new asylum seekers have arrived since March, and Finland shut its land borders with Russia late last year.
The bill is expected to pass, with the Social Democrats, the main opposition party, indicating support, though some members may break ranks, making the majority tight. For the bill to become law, parliament must first agree by a five-sixths majority that the legislation is urgent, followed by a two-thirds majority in a second vote.
Supporters assert the bill is needed to protect Finland from being overwhelmed by waves of migrants potentially mobilized by Russia. "Should Russia want to, it has the ability to mobilize and push hundreds, thousands of so-called asylum seekers to our borders in a matter of days or weeks," said Ben Zyskowicz, a lawmaker for the ruling National Coalition Party.
Opponents, including Green Party leader Sofia Virta, emphasize the importance of adhering to the rule of law and respecting Finland's international commitments. "There is no guarantee this will be an effective way to neutralize Russia's hostile influence," she said.