As one of the most stable and prosperous countries in the world, Finland’s decision to join NATO is a critical development in the realm of trans-Atlantic security relations. With Russia’s increasing aggression towards its neighbours and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Finland’s NATO membership is seen as a significant step towards strengthening the alliance’s defence capabilities. However, the decision has also sparked debate over the potential consequences for Finland’s historically neutral stance and its relationship with Russia. This complex issue raises questions about the future of trans-Atlantic security relations, the role of NATO in Europe, and the challenges of balancing military cooperation with maintaining diplomatic relationships. In this article, we will explore the impact of Finland’s NATO membership on trans-Atlantic security relations and the implications for the wider geopolitical landscape.

Finland has maintained a policy of neutrality since the end of World War II. The country has a long history of balancing its relationships with both NATO and Russia. Finland has been a member of Partnership for Peace (PfP) since 1994, which is a program designed to strengthen cooperation between NATO and non-NATO countries. However, Finland had never expressed an interest in full NATO membership until recently.

The decision to join NATO has been a topic of discussion for several years. Finland had taken a cautious approach to the issue, with many politicians and citizens concerned about the implications of joining NATO. These concerns stem from Finland’s historical relationship with Russia, which has been a source of tension for many years. In 2017, only 21 percent of the country favoured joining NATO while 51 percent were opposed.[1] However, after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, in 2022, the public support for joining NATO was 78%.[2]

There are several pros and cons of Finland’s NATO membership. One of the primary benefits of joining NATO is increased security. As a member of NATO, Finland would benefit from the protection of the alliance, which would help to deter potential threats. NATO would also provide Finland with access to advanced military technology and training, which would help to modernize the country’s armed forces.

However, there are also concerns about the potential consequences of joining NATO. One of the primary concerns is the impact that NATO membership would have on Finland’s traditionally neutral stance. Joining NATO would align Finland more closely with the West, which could strain the country’s relationship with Russia. Additionally, joining NATO could lead to increased tensions with Russia, which could have serious consequences for Finland’s security. Finland also has an 800 mile border with Russia, which puts more NATO borders against Russia, which Russia has protested.

Russia has expressed concern about Finland’s decision to join NATO, with many Russian officials warning that it could lead to a deterioration of the relationship between the two countries. Russia has also increased its military activity in the region, with several incidents of Russian military planes violating Finnish airspace. Russia has said that it would take unspecified “counter measures” in response to Finland joining NATO.[3]

Finland has responded to these concerns by reiterating its commitment to maintaining a constructive relationship with Russia. However, the decision to join NATO has created some tension between the two countries, with Russia viewing Finland’s decision as a potential threat to its security.[4]

Finland’s NATO membership has also had an impact on EU-NATO relations. The EU and NATO have a close relationship, with many EU countries also being members of NATO. However, Finland’s decision to join NATO has created some tension within the EU, with some countries expressing concern about the potential impact on EU-Russia relations.

The decision to join NATO has also raised questions about the role of NATO in Europe. Some EU countries have expressed concern about NATO’s expanding influence, with many viewing the alliance as a potential threat to European security.[5] However, others argue that NATO plays a critical role in ensuring trans-Atlantic security and deterring potential threats from Russia.[6][7]

Finland’s decision to join NATO has also had an impact on Sweden’s security policy. Sweden has traditionally maintained a policy of neutrality, similar to Finland. However, the decision to join NATO has caused some concern in Sweden, with many officials worried about the potential consequences for the country’s security.

Sweden has responded to Finland’s decision by increasing its military cooperation with NATO. The two countries have also signed a memorandum of understanding, which outlines areas of potential cooperation between the two countries.

Finland’s decision to join NATO could have significant implications for the Arctic region. The alliance has expressed an interest in increasing its presence in the region, which could lead to increased tensions with Russia. Additionally, Finland’s NATO membership could lead to increased military activity in the region, which could have serious consequences for the environment and local populations.

The decision to join NATO has created both opportunities and challenges for Finland. Joining NATO provides increased security and access to advanced military technology, but it also raises questions about the future of trans-Atlantic security relations and the role of NATO in Europe. Finland will need to navigate these challenges carefully to ensure that its security and diplomatic relationships remain strong.

[1]https://www.reuters.com/article/us-…g-nato-would-require-referendum-idUSKBN1CZ2K6
[2]https://www.rferl.org/a/finland-nato-survey-membership/32145117.html
[3]https://www.reuters.com/world/europ…historic-shift-while-sweden-waits-2023-04-04/
[4]https://www.cbsnews.com/news/finland-nato-russia-sweden-ukraine-united-states-vladimir-putin/
[5]https://www.brookings.edu/research/enlarging-nato-a-questionable-idea-whose-time-has-come/
[6]https://www.brookings.edu/research/enlarging-nato-a-questionable-idea-whose-time-has-come/
[7]https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/eugs_review_web_0.pdf