Current affairs
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12.11.2026
Restrictions placed on entry of Russian athletes into Finland
Finland is tightening restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens into the country. On 12 November 2026, the Government issued a resolution, which stated the threat that the entry of Russian citizens into the country poses to Finland’s international relations. The new restrictions apply to short-term work carried out under a visa, including professional sports. As of 16 November 2026, public authorities will take the new resolution into account when considering visa applications and assessing the conditions for entry and short-term stay.
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11.11.2026
Finland contributes to the global transition away from fossil fuels
Over 96% of Finland's electricity is generated from non-fossil sources, one of the highest shares in the world. Total fossil fuel consumption has been halved over the past 15 years, decreasing from 47% in 2010 to 26% in 2025.
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29.10.2026
Finland supports UN Women initiative to strengthen women’s participation in peace processes
Finland is providing EUR 200,000 to a UN Women initiative aimed at promoting women’s participation in mediation and peace processes. Finland is strongly committed to promoting human rights and gender equality through its foreign policy and has long supported the United Nations’ Women, Peace and Security agenda.
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23.10.2026
Finland’s quantum expertise can strengthen Europe’s global leadership
Europe has a strong position in quantum technologies. The challenge is to turn scientific excellence into technological leadership, globally competitive businesses and high-value industrial activity. Finland’s quantum ecosystem, combining world-class research, innovative companies and specialised infrastructure, offers valuable expertise to help achieve this goal.
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12.10.2026
EU targets largest ever package of sanctions against individuals and entities supporting Russia’s war industry
The European Union (EU) adopted new sanctions against individuals and entities in Russia’s military industry complex and against individuals involved in organising the so-called elections for the Russian State Duma in the unlawfully annexed or occupied territories of Ukraine. This is the single largest set of sanctions listings ever agreed by the EU.
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10.10.2026
EU Finance Ministers Advance Capital Markets Integration and Discuss Banking Sector Competitiveness
EU finance ministers met in Luxembourg for meetings of the Eurogroup and the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN). ECOFIN reached a common position on the Markets and Institutional Supervision Package (MISP), which aims to advance the integration of Europe’s capital markets and strengthen competitiveness. Other topics included the competitiveness of the banking sector, climate finance and economic developments. Finland was represented by Minister of Finance Riikka Purra.
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9.10.2026
EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss Russia's war of aggression and hybrid actions, security impact of EU enlargement, and the Middle East
The Foreign Affairs Council will meet in Luxembourg on Monday 12 October. State Secretary Pasi Rajala will represent Finland at the meeting.
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8.10.2026
Minister Tavio to attend informal meeting of EU development ministers
EU ministers responsible for development are holding an informal meeting in Dublin, Ireland, on 8–9 October. Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio will represent Finland at the meeting.
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2.10.2026
The Finnish EU Representation reopens with a focus on Finnish Solutions
The renovated premises of the Permanent Representation of Finland to the EU and the Embassy of Finland in Brussels are once again officially open. Following a year-long renovation, the Permanent Representation is once again able to welcome visitors, host events and provide a venue for discussions on current European issues. The new facilities offer an excellent setting for seminars, receptions, networking events, and stakeholder gatherings. Activities in the premises will be built around the “Finnish Solutions” concept.
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1.10.2026
New partnership agreement strengthens cooperation between EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific countries
The Government proposes that Parliament approve the partnership agreement between the European Union and its Member States and the members of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), also known as the Samoa Agreement.