Finland links national security to regional economic vitality

Discussions regarding Finland's national security emphasize that a strong defense requires more than military capability; it necessitates a resilient society, functional infrastructure, and regional vitality. In Eastern Finland, the closure of the eastern border has significantly impacted local businesses, particularly in the service, hospitality, and tourism sectors. Maintaining inhabited and economically viable regions in the east is viewed as a critical component of national security.

In the Häme region, the growth of the defense industry is a major economic driver. However, there are concerns regarding the potential over-reliance on the defense sector. Experts suggest that while supporting defense manufacturing is important, regional investments should not come at the expense of other vital sectors, such as the bioeconomy, circular economy, and initiatives addressing climate change and an aging population.