Finland’s government is moving forward with a significant legislative proposal to ban most Russian citizens from purchasing property within the country, a measure aimed at bolstering national security. The proposal, announced by Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen on Monday, comes in response to heightened security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This military aggression led Finland to abandon its long-standing policy of non-alignment and join the NATO military alliance.
The proposed legislation would specifically target property acquisitions by Russian nationals, with exceptions only for dual citizens and those Russians holding permanent residency in Finland or other European Union nations. Before becoming law, the proposal will undergo expert consultations and a vote in Finland’s parliament.
“The regulations are aimed at preventing possible hostile influences against Finland,” Hakkanen stated during a press conference. His remarks underline Finland’s growing concern over the potential for Russian property owners to engage in activities that could undermine the nation’s security.
Currently, Finnish authorities are monitoring approximately 3,500 properties linked to Russian owners. While specific details were not provided, it is known that Finland has previously taken steps to restrict property purchases by Russians near strategic locations. For instance, in October last year and again in January, authorities blocked several property acquisitions by Russian citizens under existing regulations.
Finland shares a 1,340 km (830 miles) border with Russia, a fact that adds to its security concerns. In recent months, Finland has closed all border crossings with Russia and accused the Kremlin of using migration as a tool to destabilise the country, by encouraging migrants from Asia and Africa to seek asylum in Finland.
Melissa Enoch
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