In a decisive move, Finland’s parliament has elected Petteri Orpo, a conservative politician, as the country’s new prime minister. Orpo, who emerged victorious in the April elections, has been engaged in challenging negotiations to form a coalition government since then. The four-party coalition includes the far-right Finns Party, which has outlined its intention to implement a significant crackdown on immigration. With 107 votes in favor, 81 opposed, and 11 absentees, Orpo secured the parliamentary support required to assume the position of prime minister.
A formal appointment ceremony is scheduled for later today, during which President Sauli Niinisto will officially transfer power from outgoing Prime Minister Sanna Marin of the Social Democrats. The newly formed coalition comprises the National Coalition Party (NCP), led by Orpo, the Finns Party, the Swedish People’s Party (RKP), and the Christian Democrats. Their joint vision for the country includes a paradigm shift in immigration policy. One of the coalition’s key goals is to reduce the number of refugees accepted by Finland through the United Nations refugee agency.
Their aim is to cut the annual intake from 1,050 to 500 individuals, signifying a drastic reduction. Such a move has raised concerns among experts, who argue that it may potentially infringe upon the constitution, particularly with regards to establishing separate social security benefit systems for immigrants and permanent residents. The coalition also plans to tighten the criteria for obtaining permanent residency and citizenship. Finns Party leader Riikka Purra emphasized the need for stricter measures in these areas.
Additionally, Orpo campaigned on an austerity platform, vowing to implement substantial spending cuts totaling six billion euros over the next four years. Finland’s political landscape is now poised for change, with the conservative-led coalition signaling a shift toward stricter immigration policies and fiscal discipline. As the country transitions to its new leadership, the impact of these measures on Finland’s social fabric and international reputation remains to be seen.