Finland allows nuclear weapons on its territory, parliament approves historic change

Finland has enacted a significant shift in its security policy, with parliament approving a law that permits nuclear weapons on its territory. This move effectively ends a long-standing prohibition and aligns the nation's legislation with NATO's nuclear deterrence strategy.

The new law, passed with 125 votes in favor and 61 against, allows for the introduction, transport, and possession of nuclear weapons under exceptional circumstances related to national defense and NATO obligations. This represents one of the most substantial security policy changes in Finland's recent history, overturning provisions from the 1980s nuclear energy legislation and amending the penal code.

Finland's strategic reorientation stems from Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. After decades of military non-alignment, the country joined NATO in April 2023. Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen stated the legislative change is crucial for bolstering national security, enabling NATO to fully utilize nuclear deterrence for Finland's protection.

The decision sparked intense debate. Opposition parties and civil society groups criticized the abandonment of a policy that was a cornerstone of Finland's security stance. Supporters, however, argued that the deteriorating security situation in the Baltic Sea region necessitates adapting legislation and harmonizing it with neighboring Nordic countries like Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, which do not have explicit bans on nuclear weapons.