Finland participates in an EU military crisis management operation in the Mediterranean

Press release 184/2015
7 August 2015

The President of the Republic decided on Friday 7 August on Finland's participation in the EU's military crisis management operation (EUNAVFOR MED) in the Mediterranean Sea. The operation that started in June is aimed at preventing human smuggling in accordance with international law.

At this time, Finland will second a maximum of ten soldiers to staff duties for a period of no longer than 12 months.

Plans will continue on the possible participation in the operation with a navy boarding team at a later stage. This will be considered later and a decision on the participation will be made in accordance with the Act on Military Crisis Management.

For more information: Timo Kantola, Deputy Director General, tel. +358 295 351 561, Ministry for Foreign Affairs; Hannu Teittinen, Lieutenant Colonel, Senior Staff Officer, tel. +358 295 140 317, Ministry of Defence.