President Alexander Stubb delivered his inaugural New Year's speech on January 1, 2025, addressing the Finnish population with encouraging words amid challenging global circumstances. Stubb commenced with the acknowledgment of heightened security concerns stemming from recent geopolitical tensions, particularly surrounding incidents in the Baltic Sea. "Dear compatriots, we live in a time when our sense of security is shaken almost on a daily basis. We try to understand change, we seek security," Stubb stated, immediately setting the tone for his address.
Stubb's emphasis on internal cohesion was clear throughout his discourse. He underscored the absence of any immediate threat of war to Finland, alleviating fears about the nation's safety. He described Finland's security situation as stable, yet he recognized Russia as the primary security concern. "This does not mean to say Russia has ceased to be the biggest threat to our security. It has been, and unfortunately, will continue to be one for the foreseeable future," he explained.
A significant aspect of Stubb's speech was his appeal for unity and mutual respect among Finns. "There is no place for racism in Finland," he declared, asserting the fundamental value of empathy and caring for one another regardless of background. He explicitly stated, "A person's worth is not determined by gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic background, or age. Part of being Finn is caring for others." His message aims to reinforce the idea of building "a Finland for all of us — everyone's Finland.”
Stubb addressed the economic strains influencing the Finnish populace, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms rather than superficial fixes. He remarked, "There is no silver bullet to strengthen the Finnish economy. Spending cuts alone will not balance the economy. Increasing public expenditure will not save us. Structural reforms are always difficult." He encouraged political parties to collaborate and seek common ground to revitalize economic growth.
The president’s commitment to international cooperation was also evident, particularly concerning Finland's steadfast support for Ukraine amid the continuing conflict with Russia. "Finland's support for Ukraine remains unwavering," he affirmed, drawing parallels between Ukraine's struggle for independence and Finland's own historical challenges.
Stubb’s speech marked important stylistic shifts from precedent. It was not only his first live address since 2005 — breaking the trend set by former president Sauli Niinistö, who pre-recorded his messages — but also included dialogue aimed at engaging the citizens directly, which was described as more reassuring and empathetic by observers. His opening, using the phrase "Dear compatriots," was seen as significant as it veered from the traditional salutation of "citizens," reflecting Stubb's intention to forge closer connections with the populace.
The speech did not heavily dwell on external diplomacy or detailed foreign policy discussions, focusing instead on internal societal challenges. His approach received positive commentary from analysts like Hiski Haukkala of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, who noted the balance between providing realistic assessments of Finland's security environment and cultivating optimism for the future, saying, "Stubb sets forth realistic, unvarnished perspectives on our security environment, yet also aims to cultivate hope and optimism."
Experts pointed out the timely alignment of Stubb's message of unity with the current fragmentation faced both globally and domestically. His emphasis on empathy, listening, and respecting divergent opinions was particularly poignant against the backdrop of rising social media polarization.
Throughout his speech, Stubb acknowledged the difficulties faced by many Finnish citizens, especially concerning work and financial stability, recognizing broad societal angst over these issues. The reassurance offered by him, coupled with his pleas for collective effort and strength, resounded strongly within the historical and cultural fabric of Finnish resilience.
Finland has prided itself on being among the happiest nations worldwide, and Stubb encouraged the population to maintain gratitude and recognition of these values, calling for solidarity as the key to facing future challenges. He concluded his address with well wishes for the New Year, invoking God's blessings on the Finnish people, much like his predecessor did, solidifying his message of hope and resilience.
Stubb’s first New Year’s address not only set the stage for his presidency but clearly outlined his priorities: ensuring national security, promoting unity across Finnish society, and enhancing Finland's role on the international stage as a proponent of peace and collaboration. His approach suggests he is preparing to tackle the complex interplay of local and global issues, emphasizing the importance of cooperation, dialogue, and mutual respect among Finns as they navigate through these uncertain times.