Finland’s government is proposing a ban on most Russian citizens from buying property in the country to enhance national security.
This proposal follows escalating tensions between Finland and Russia since the latter’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which led Finland to abandon its policy of military non-alignment and join NATO.
The legislation aims to prevent potential hostile activities by Russian nationals, with exemptions considered for dual citizens and those with permanent residency in Finland or other EU countries.
Finland aims to limit Russian property acquisitions
The Finnish government, led by Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen, has proposed banning most Russian citizens from acquiring real estate.
The proposal is currently under expert review and is expected to be voted on in parliament later this year.
The government argues that the ban is necessary to prevent “possible hostile influences” from Russia, given the deteriorating relations between the two nations.
However, the ban would not apply to Russians with dual citizenship with Finland or another EU country, or those with permanent residency in Finland or other EU member states.
Surveillance of Russian-owned properties underway
Finland has begun monitoring properties owned by Russian nationals, with around 3,500 properties currently under observation.
Defence Minister Hakkanen noted this surveillance but did not specify details about the properties or the monitoring criteria.
This scrutiny aims to limit Russian ownership of properties near strategic locations, a concern heightened by the Ukraine conflict.
Finland has previously blocked several property transactions in sensitive areas, including six transactions in late 2023 and early 2024.
Shift in Finland’s security policy
The proposed restrictions reflect a broader shift in Finland’s security policy. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Finland’s long-standing neutrality ended, leading to its NATO membership and a reassessment of its security stance.
The 1,340 km (830 miles) border with Russia has been a focal point, with Finland closing all border crossings and accusing Russia of using migration as a geopolitical tool by encouraging asylum seekers from Asia and Africa.
Implications of Finland’s property restrictions
If approved, the legislation could set a precedent for other EU countries with significant Russian real estate investments or shared borders with Russia.
The proposal highlights Finland’s commitment to national security and may signal a more cautious, security-focused approach by EU nations in response to Russian activities.
As geopolitical tensions persist, Finland’s actions could influence how other EU countries handle similar security concerns.
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