Finland's Israel policy might be driven by upcoming elections, expert tells 'Post' - interview
“Basically, I think it comes down to domestic politics in Finland and the approaching elections,” Dr. Timo Stewart, senior researcher at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, told the Post.
Finland's approach to its relationship with Israel is becoming increasingly complex, as the country simultaneously reduces its funding for UNRWA and strengthens defense cooperation with the Jewish state. This appears to be driven by domestic political considerations, particularly in light of the approaching elections in April. The country has chosen not to renew its multi-year funding agreement with UNRWA, which will instead be redirected to organizations like the World Food Program.
However, Finland has also extended a memorandum of understanding with Israel for defense cooperation, including research and development, procurement of defense equipment, and defense R&D, which will last until 2034. This shift in policy can be attributed to the right-wing populist Finns Party, which is part of the coalition government and has long been critical of UNRWA.
The foreign trade minister, responsible for the UNRWA funding, is thus able to halt and then restart the funding, while the foreign minister maintains a critical stance towards Israel's actions in Gaza.
Brief written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
