HELSINKI: Finland’s parliament passed contentious legislation on Friday that permits border guards to reject asylum seekers under specific conditions, responding to a recent influx of migrants via its eastern border, which Helsinki alleges was orchestrated by Russia, a claim denied by the Kremlin.
The “act on temporary measures to combat instrumentalised migration” received support from 167 MPs, with 31 voting against.
The bill, backed by President Alexander Stubb, who is expected to sign it promptly, will be effective for one year.
It grants the Finnish government authority to limit the acceptance of international protection applications at and near Finland’s border.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasized the legislation’s message of safeguarding Finland’s security and the EU border during a press conference following parliament’s decision.
The move follows Finland’s closure of its border with Russia in December amidst the arrival of nearly 1,000 visaless migrants last autumn.
Critics, including legal experts, argue that the bill contradicts human rights obligations outlined in Finland’s constitution and international legal commitments. The legislation required a five-sixths majority for urgent status and subsequent passage by a two-thirds majority.
Opposition to the bill has been robust, with protests outside parliament and criticism from parties like the Green Party and Left Alliance, as well as dissenting voices within other parliamentary factions.
The law, aimed at countering perceived Russian “hybrid attacks,” allows for monthly application in specific areas where national security is deemed at risk.
Under its provisions, only select asylum seekers, such as children or individuals with disabilities, will be eligible to apply for protection based on border guards’ assessments, with no avenue for appeal for rejected applicants.
