Improving comprehensive security in Europe

The security environment in Europe has changed dramatically. Finland, through its active influence efforts, has succeeded in putting security at the top of the EU’s agenda. Security and preparedness are important priorities for the new Commission, which began its work in 2024.

The EU must strengthen its resilience and preparedness for many kinds of crises and hybrid threats. Each country is responsible for its preparedness, but measures at the EU level can bring significant added value to national preparedness and improve the Union’s capability to respond to situations affecting several Member States. Improving the level of preparedness in the EU Member States also strengthens Finland’s security.

Finland’s initiative represents a shift in how we think about security: security aspects must be taken into account in all policy areas. In line with its comprehensive security model, Finland’s view is that different actors have a role to play in preparedness. The Finnish model for comprehensive security means that public authorities, businesses, organisations and citizens work closely together to safeguard the vital functions of society.

Developing preparedness is a new policy area in the EU that is still in its early stages, and Finland has a good opportunity to lead its development.

Three key strategies

In his autumn 2024 report to the Commission, former president Sauli Niinistö noted that the EU urgently needs to enhance its civilian and military preparedness.

In spring 2025, the Commission published three strategies that will serve to implement former president Niinistö’s recommendations: the Commission’s White Paper for European Defence, the EU Preparedness Union Strategy and the European Internal Security Strategy.