Finland should aim higher in the EU

The EU’s most important leadership positions were distributed at last week’s summit in Brussels. In advance Ursula von der Leyen was elected to continue as chairman of the commission. The former prime minister of Portugal will start as the leader of the summits Anthony Coast and the representative leading foreign policy is the Prime Minister of Estonia Kaja Kalla. However, von der Leyen and Kallas still need to get a majority approval from the European Parliament.

The appointment of Kallas is a great victory for small Estonia. It is all the greater because the Baltic countries have also had a significant impact in last season’s commission: one of the four most important vice-presidents of the commission was from Latvia Valdis Dombrovskis.

The Baltic countries have stood out, when you take into account that they are smaller countries in Europe in terms of population and economy. They have had prominent politicians who have taken a straightforward stand on issues, which has been reflected in increased media attention.

As Kallas’ appointment shows, in the EU, even a small country can get to the top when the person is qualified and not afraid to take a stand.

The attention of Kallas and the politicians of the Baltic countries has been on defending Ukraine, criticizing Russia and emphasizing foreign and security policy. This point of view is also shared in Finland, so Finland could have aimed for a similar solution.

However, Finland does not speak for itself in EU fields. Maybe you should think about a different influencing strategy.

Sanna Marinin when he was prime minister, he gained attention in Europe specifically for his strong positions on Ukraine. Foreign minister Elina Valtonen has gained visibility, especially in Germany, not only because of his language skills, but also because of his ability to debate European issues.

There are also other ways to lobby in the EU: Spain chose its commissioner candidate well in advance. Chosen Teresa Ribera has been campaigning prominently to get the green transition portfolio. Of course, Spain also does its part in the conference rooms, but open campaigning is quite a refreshing way to do EU politics.

What Finland needs is a visionary and forward-looking European debate and politicians who are interested in presenting their views on Europe also on their home turf.

However, the game is not lost yet. Finland must aim for the top in EU politics and drum up a heavy portfolio.

In terms of the Finnish economy and growth, the development of the internal market and state subsidies is essential. The business world wants to continue the ambitious climate policy, but also to end generous state subsidies, which attract investments to Europe’s largest countries.

Finland is getting Henna from Virkkus A politician with experience in EU affairs, who also served as a minister in several governments.

Finland should aim for a portfolio that is important for industry, the internal market and competitiveness. It also requires active discussion and constructive alternatives on how Europe should be developed.