The European Commission has proposed allocating 1.6 billion euros to Finland in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034, marking a substantial increase from the previous period. This new funding, exceeding the current allocation by more than one billion euros, is primarily aimed at reinforcing Finland’s eastern border with Russia.
Joakim Strand, Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering (SPP), confirmed the figures during a press conference on Friday. “According to the allocation figures published last night, the Commission is proposing 1.6 billion euros in funding for Finland based on border and migration criteria,” Strand said. He highlighted the allocation as a sign that Finland’s security concerns are being acknowledged at the European level.
Strategic importance of the eastern border
Finland’s 1,340-kilometre eastern border with Russia has gained growing attention since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The funding is part of broader EU efforts to bolster external border control and migration management in response to geopolitical instability.
Strand noted that extensive lobbying by Finnish civil servants and politicians helped secure the funding, citing visits by EU officials to the eastern border region. Notably, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited the area in April 2024, underlining its strategic relevance.
Budget negotiations still ongoing
Despite the positive news, Finnish officials remain critical of the overall EU budget proposal. The Commission’s plan outlines a total of two trillion euros for the upcoming MFF, a significant increase compared to the 1.2 trillion euros allocated for 2021–2027.
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) stated earlier this week that Finland cannot accept the overall spending level proposed by the Commission. Strand echoed this concern, remarking that while the additional allocation for border security is welcome, the overall budget remains excessive and requires further negotiation.
Alignment with Finland’s policy goals
Strand concluded that, although there is “plenty of room for improvement” in the current proposal, the Commission’s priorities align with Finland’s own objectives, especially regarding security and migration. The final decision on the MFF is expected to be reached following further discussions among EU member states in the coming months.
