Finland is one of the top countries in northern Europe that is known for its stunning landscapes, wonderful people, and strong economy. While Finland has always been very neutral in terms of its foreign politics and policies, recent discussions point towards it becoming the next member state of NATO, the biggest military alliance in the world that comprises of 30 states. If NATO were to accept Finland into its ranks, it is possible that neighbor Sweden may also decide to join NATO in the near future. This article will explore Finland’s likely joining of NATO, and the potential for Sweden taking the same step.
What is NATO?
Created in 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is an intergovernmental military alliance that consists of 29 member states from North America and Europe. Its main purpose is to maintain the security of its member states from potential adversaries and threats. NATO works through a collective defence mechanism in which an attack on any member state will be considered an attack on all states, leading to a unified response from all allied members. Areas of defence cover a multitude of activities, such as military operations, diplomatic, nuclear, weapons and communications systems.
Why is Finland Under Consideration?
As a member of the Nordic Council, Finland shares close ties with the trio of Scandinavian countries – Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. Of these, Denmark and Norway are members of NATO, while Sweden remains neutral and has not yet joined the alliance.
Finland is economically and militarily very stable and could fulfill the requirements of joining NATO without any issues. Its geographical location puts it in the vicinity of the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad, which has led to geopolitical tensions between Russia and the Baltic countries – i.e. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. These tensions are seen as a weak link in the NATO chain, with the potential for Russia to use this as an entry point for disruption of activities.
In addition, Finland’s location and border patrolling could also help NATO strengthen its dialogue with Russia on a diplomatic level, providing an enhanced platform for negotiations surrounding nuclear armaments and other political issues.
The Impact of Finland Joining NATO
Should Finland accept membership to NATO, the alliance could use Finland’s military capabilities to its advantage to strengthen its nearby defensive network. Through the contribution of Finnish troops, NATO will have a larger security network to protect its other member states – thus improving the overall security of the region.
Finland is a Nordic nation and would be of use in further negotiations with Russia in regards to disputed military exercises. Additionally, Finland’s territorial location would also be beneficial in negotiations with Sweden over passport-free entry for citizens of both countries.
The Potential of Sweden Joining NATO
The possibility of Finland joining NATO could also have a positive effect on Sweden’s decision to join the alliance. Sweden is geographically adjacent to Finland, thus partnering up with its neighbor could improve the effectiveness of military operations between the two countries. If Sweden were to join NATO, it would be a great asset towards a stronger military force in Europe.
The accession of Finland and Sweden to NATO can also potentially lead to increased economic growth in the region, given the increased access to foreign investment and trade opportunities. As two of the largest economies in the Scandinavian region, the two countries can act as catalysts for economic development and attract more investors in the process.
NATO is the strongest military alliance in the world, with a multitude of member countries. In recent news, it appears that Finland is likely to join the ranks of this great force. Finland’s potential membership would come with many advantages, such as a strengthened network of defence that includes Finnish troops, and improved dialogue between Russia and the Baltic states. This move could also open the door for Sweden to follow suit, seeing the countries benefit from assured security through a joint NATO presence. The possibilities associated with both Finland and Sweden joining NATO are endless, and something that could potentially bring immense benefit to the region and its people.
