Finland bans Russian property purchases amid security concerns
- A law has been proposed to ban Russian citizens and entities from buying property in Finland to address security concerns.
- The proposal may also apply to other countries that threaten Finland's national security, allowing for broader enforcement.
- The Finnish government aims to protect its infrastructure and society from potential exploitation amid rising tensions with Russia.
On September 2, Finnish Minister of Defence Antti Häkämies proposed a law to prohibit Russian citizens and entities from purchasing property in Finland. This initiative aims to mitigate security risks amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A working group established by Häkämies earlier in May suggested that the ban could extend to citizens and funds from other countries deemed a threat to Finland's national security, allowing for a broader application of the law. The Finnish government has expressed concerns that property ownership by Russians could jeopardize the country's security, economy, and critical infrastructure. Häkämies emphasized the need for proactive measures to protect Finland from potential exploitation of vulnerabilities by foreign entities. The proposal may include exceptions for individuals with Finnish dual citizenship or permanent residence permits. Relations between Finland and Russia have deteriorated significantly, prompting Finland to take decisive actions, including a recent law aimed at controlling asylum seekers at the Finnish-Russian border. This law reflects fears that Russia might use migration as a tool to exert pressure on Finland. The legislative proposal is expected to be presented to the Finnish Parliament this autumn, where it will likely be voted on. The government's stance indicates a commitment to safeguarding national interests and ensuring that property ownership does not become a means of undermining societal stability.