ABSTRACT
Comprehensive security has become a key element of Finland’s deterrence and defence. Previously perhaps more associated with “soft security”, that is, non-military threats, this concept is now becoming part of deterrence, with Finland promoting it in other NATO countries as well. With the Alliance membership, the concept of deterrence has taken on a new meaning in the Finnish security discourse. The previous emphasis on maintaining a credible national defence as a preventive threshold has been replaced by maintaining deterrence together with other allied countries. At the same time, the Finnish defence administration has reintroduced the concept of total defence as part of comprehensive security, signifying a desire to link the comprehensive security model more closely to deterrence and defence, as the term is used in NATO. Comprehensive security and preparedness across society have become a central part of Finland’s image, and this is reflected in government reports, parliamentary speeches and diplomatic relations. Finland sees comprehensive security as one of its areas of expertise in which it can support NATO’s deterrence and defence. Finland actively seeks to influence the development of this area, both within the Alliance and in the European Union.
