As 2024 unfolds, we are witnessing the heaviest electoral year in history. Finnish voters, accustomed to regular polling, face another significant decision. Last year, they ousted the socialist government led by Sanna Marin. This year, they return to the voting booths to elect a new president and European Parliament representatives.
The presidential election of 2024 is more than a political ritual; it’s a critical juncture for Finland. Known for stability, social welfare, and technological innovation, Finland now tests the resilience of its political system, influenced by recent fragile coalition governments. This is the first time Finns voted since joining NATO, turning the campaign spotlight on security and its relationship with Russia. Here are some of the top candidates for the presidential race.
Finnish direct democracy in action
Unlike parliamentary elections, the Finnish presidential race is decided through a direct popular vote. The President’s role, largely ceremonial with limited executive powers, is influential in shaping national discourse. A candidate needs over half the valid votes to win outright. If no candidate achieves this, a run-off between the top two contenders adds complexity to the electoral process.
The candidate pool is broad and diverse, attracting former European politicians and top government officials. The Green Pekka Haavisto aims for a third consecutive second-round appearance, likely facing former moderate Prime Minister Alexander Stubb. Notable are conservative Jussi Halla-aho, Speaker of the Finnish Parliament, and former European Commissioner Olli Rehn, who is running independently.
In a male-dominated race, European Commissioner Jutta Urpilainen of the Social Democratic party could have been a strong contender. However, her late race entry and hesitation to leave the Commission have not favoured her in the polls. A detailed profile of Commissioner Urpilanien will follow in a later edition.
Alexander Stubb: the promise of stability and continuity
With a career spanning decades and a reputation as a pragmatic and forward-thinking leader, Stubb brings a wealth of experience to the forefront of the political discourse. Stubb’s political career gained momentum when he was elected as a Member of the European Parliament in 2004. Yet, his rise within the Finnish political landscape was rapid after a short time in Brussels.
In 2008, he was appointed as Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, which coincided with a period of global economic uncertainty and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Stubb navigated these challenges adeptly, earning a reputation as a skilled diplomat and advocate for Finnish interests on the international stage and a rising star among the EPP family. Upon his job at the ministry Stubb also served as Minister for European Affairs and Foreign Trade.
The most defining moment for Alexander Stubb’s political career came in 2014 when he assumed the role of the Prime Minister of Finland. Leading the government during a series of reforms aimed at bolstering the Finnish economy. His economic policies focused on conservative liberal measures to enhance competitiveness, reduce public spending, and stimulate growth through innovation and entrepreneurship. Despite facing criticism for the implementation of austerity measures, Stubb maintained that reforms were necessary to ensure long-term economic sustainability in the middle of a global economic crisis.
Owning a reputation for keeping the boat afloat while the global economy was in chaos, Stubb served as the Vice President of the European Investment Bank (EIB). He lost the EPP’s lead candidate to become head of the European Commission to Manfred Weber in 2018. Yet, this led him to take the academic path of becoming the Director of the European University Institute.
As Brexit negotiations unfolded, Stubb emerged as a vocal commentator on the process. His insights into the complexities of the European Union and its relationship with the United Kingdom highlighted his nuanced understanding of the intricacies of international relations.
Stubb’s party, the National Coalition, has been holding the presidency of Finland for the last two terms. In 2024, after considering other names, the party asked Stubb to accept the nomination to become the candidate to continue with the work and agenda of the current President, Sauli Niinistö. Stubb’s diplomatic background and experience in managing foreign relations contribute to this nomination, considering the role that Finland is expected to play as a NATO member.
All eyes will be on Alexander Stubb and the vision he presents for the next chapter in Finland’s democratic journey.
Jussi Halla-aho – An unapologetic candidate
Jussi Halla-aho, with a doctorate in Political Science, made his mark through candid blogs on immigration and multiculturalism. Elected to Parliament in 2011 for the True Finns, now the Finns Party, Halla-aho has been a controversial figure. His conviction for ethnic agitation in 2012 and his tenure as Finns Party leader, where he steered the party towards nationalism and Euroscepticism, have been polarising. Despite criticisms of populism, his party’s strong performance in the last parliamentary elections indicates his significant influence. Halla-aho’s candidacy offers an alternative to traditional politics, resonating with voters disillusioned with the mainstream.
Upcoming profiles: progressive candidates
Stay tuned for our next piece, where we will profile the more progressive-leaning candidates. We aim to provide a comprehensive view of the Finnish presidential race, exploring its implications for Finland and Europe generally in a historic election calendar year.
