Leaders gather in Finland for 50 years of Helsinki Final Act

On July 31 and August 1, 2025, Finland hosted hundreds of officials and politicians to mark the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. This agreement, signed in 1975, represented a high point in Cold War negotiations, with the participation of 35 countries including the United States and the Soviet Union. The act established principles that facilitated human rights movements across the Cold War divide. In celebration, Finland aimed to launch the 'Helsinki+50 Fund' to enhance voluntary funding for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). The ongoing implications of Russia's aggressions in Ukraine raised questions about the OSCE's current role in European security and whether it still meets the original goals set during the Cold War. Despite the historical significance of the OSCE, recent years have seen challenges to its efficacy, particularly with the increasing tensions stemming from Russia's actions. The organization has struggled to maintain a budget as Azerbaijan withholds approval, and Russian aggression has notably weakened trust among member states. Finnish diplomats invited discussions among all countries in the lead-up to the anniversary to evaluate accountability and the possibility of the OSCE functioning effectively in its role as a 'bridge builder.' While dialogues highlighted the continued relevance of OSCE principles, frustration with the consensus rule among member states was evident. Many participants acknowledged that despite the violations of commitments, the foundational principles remain crucial. However, there was also recognition that the organization currently lacks the capacity to enforce compliance with its standards, which was exacerbated by Russia's military actions. As the anniversary approached, the Finnish delegation underscored the importance of open channels of communication during discussions, but emphasized that major reforms were not imminent. The OSCE has initiated programs like the Support Program for Ukraine (SPU), addressing critical needs while grappling with the broader implications of Russia's war of aggression. The coming gathering in Finland is significant not only as a reflection on the past but as a necessary examination of the future direction of European security, underlining the ongoing relevance of dialogue and cooperation amid challenges.