At today’s presidential session, I decided on Finland’s withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines. Parliament has approved the withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention by a large majority.
The decision is based on Finland’s defence needs in a deteriorated security situation. Finland is not facing an immediate military threat, but the changes in the operating environment require that we strengthen our defence. We have a long border with Russia, which is not a party to the Ottawa Agreement. We have seen how Russia wages war today.
I understand the criticism of the decision. Finland is strongly committed to international law and the international rules-based order. The withdrawal from the Convention will not affect Finland’s other obligations under international law.
Finland remains committed to the responsible deployment of anti-personnel mines. Finland will not deploy mines during times of peace. All mines will be stored. Mines are defensive weapons for Finland. The main goals of Finland’s foreign and security policy are to safeguard Finland’s independence and territorial integrity, to avoid becoming involved in a military conflict and to ensure the safety, security and wellbeing of the people of Finland.
