Amid increased asylum applications at the eastern border, Finland’s Ministry of the Interior is contemplating imposing restrictions on certain crossing points along its border with Russia in an attempt to halt illegal entries. As per the ministry’s official statement, Russia is accused of permitting individuals to journey across the border without the requisite documentation. This development coincides with a marked increase in the number of asylum seekers at this border over recent months.
Notably, the Border Guard Act was revised in Finland in 2022, providing the government with the authority to impose “restrictions on border crossings, close border crossing points and centralize asylum applications,” among other new powers. Taking this legal framework into account, the Ministry of the Interior is proposing new restriction measures, consistent with these amendments to the Act.
While the number of asylum seekers remains relatively low overall, officials noted a substantial surge starting from August 2023. Most of these individuals reportedly traversed Russia from a third country before arriving at the Finland-Russia border. Historically, Russia would prevent such transit without the correct documents. However, Finland contends that Russian border officials’ practices have changed. Furthermore, the authorities suggest that these crossings may be associated with international crime. Riikka Purra, the Finnish Finance Minister, issued a Twitter post, stressing that the decision stems from concerns over national security and changes in Russia’s actions, rather than the sheer number of asylum applications.
Additionally, Interior Minister Mari Rantanen indicated that the authorities are closely monitoring the situation and that the Finnish government is willing to “use all legislative powers to ensure border security if necessary.” There has been no official response from Russia as of yet.
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