Head of State
Stubb sworn in as new President of Finland
Acting President Sauli Niinistö (l.) welcomes the new head of state Alexander Stubb. photo
© Heikki Saukkomaa/Lehtikuva/dpa
Finland has a new head of state. The 75-year-old Niinistö is followed by Stubb, who is 20 years younger. It is a generational change – but not one with consequences for Finland’s Russia policy.
In his inaugural speech, Stubb emphasized the importance of cooperation and international cooperation – global challenges such as climate change and conflicts cannot only be solved between like-minded countries, he said. He called on his compatriots to avoid polarization and listen to each other.
“I promise to defend democracy”
“I promise to work for an open, safe and international Finland,” said Stubb. “I promise to defend democracy, freedom of expression and the rule of law in all situations. I promise to listen, discuss and care. I promise to fight to ensure that Finland remains a good country – the best country – in the future the world for us Finns.”
In mid-February, Stubb narrowly prevailed in a runoff election for the presidency against Green Party politician and former Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto. He is considered pro-European and a staunch supporter of Ukraine. The change in office is therefore not expected to have any impact on Finland’s Russia policy. Finland borders Russia for around 1,340 kilometers.
The president plays a more active role in Finnish politics than in many other European countries. One of his most important tasks is to decide on foreign and security policy together with the government. He is also Commander-in-Chief of the Finnish Armed Forces. Niinistö, one of the most popular presidents in Finnish history, was not allowed to run again after two six-year terms.