Finland's foreign policy has undergone significant changes recently, drawing both praise and scrutiny for its commitment to promoting gender equality around the world. Leading this initiative is the country's increasing support for UN Women, which has garnered attention and accolades during recent discussions among Finnish leaders.
During her recent visit to Finland, Kirsi Madi, the Deputy Executive Director of UN Women, along with Sima Bahous, the head of the organization, engaged with top officials including President Alexander Stubb and Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio. A central theme during these meetings was Finland's ambitious foreign development policy, particularly its commitment to empowering women and girls globally.
"Finland has always invested in the standing of women and girls, and this commitment is still evident today," Madi stated, emphasizing the historical support Finland has provided to initiatives aimed at improving women's rights.
For 2024, Finland plans to remain the second-largest contributor to UN Women after Germany, pledging 19 million euros primarily for core funding. This financial backing allows UN Women to influence policy, contributing to 248 legal changes across 39 nations, addressing various issues from violence against women to economic independence.
Beyond financial contributions, Finland also sponsors various programs assisting women under duress, most recently aiding organizations helping those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Madi detailed how, through 40 women's organizations, support included financial aid, psychological assistance, and legal help.
Particularly significant is the role of UN Women within Afghanistan, where the organization operates with 180 local employees running shelters for women facing violence. Despite low-profile operations, the need has never been greater, with Afghanistan serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of gender inequality.
“We see now, unfortunately, progress toward gender equality is being challenged globally, not just here,” Madi cautioned. Other nations are increasingly questioning established norms and standards of gender equality, with these conversations spilling over onto social media and even within the halls of the United Nations.
Madi, who has spent over three decades working for various UN organizations, is hopeful yet realistic about the challenges faced. “This current era—when work for gender equality faces significant pushback—is when strong collaborations, like those with the UN, become even more important,” she asserted.
Meanwhile, as Finland strives to champion international aid, its relations with neighboring Russia have become more strained, particularly following Finland's decision to apply for NATO membership after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Sergei Beljajev, appointed as Russia’s ambassador to Sweden and previously serving numerous terms within Finland, addressed the impact of this geopolitical shift on local relations. He reflected on productive Finland-Russia interactions before NATO's influence, describing them as mutually beneficial. “It’s regrettable now; I fear we will miss out on significant international events held here,” Beljajev stated, voicing concerns over how Finland's new NATO status has altered its foreign policy stance.
With Finland's official stance promoting peace and cooperative regional relations, Beljajev expressed dismay at how Russia is now perceived through the NATO lens. “Previously, we regarded Finland as friendly territory, which was free of threats toward us,” he noted, indicating the shift might spur new security concerns.
The divide between the two nations has widened, especially as Western countries impose sanctions against Russia due to its military actions. Beljajev lamented the loss of established diplomatic channels and expressed hope for future cooperation, yet acknowledged the realities of the situation. “We have to think differently about Finland now, though the history remains,” he remarked.
Both Madi and Beljajev's perspectives highlight the challenges and responsibilities facing countries engaged on the international stage today. Finland's commitment to promoting equity among women globally aligns with domestic needs, but balancing this with international relations—especially with Russia—presents complications and requires strategic navigation.
Despite potential pushbacks, Madi ends on an optimistic note for the future of Finnish foreign aid and international cooperation, asserting, “Finland is dedicated to standing with women and girls globally, ensuring their rights are supported long term.”
