Finland’s Unlikely Advantage: A Culture of Defense Preparedness

Finland stands out as an anomaly among its Nordic neighbors, which have consistently been tested by Russia. While many nations struggle to adapt to the complexities of modern warfare and the existential threats it poses, Finland has been quietly preparing for the worst-case scenario. The recent civil defense exercise in Kuopio, attended by over 2,000 participants, is a testament to this unique aspect of Finnish culture.

Finns have long prided themselves on their resilience and adaptability, traits honed through centuries of living on the periphery of great powers. This self-reliance permeates every level of society, from local community groups to individual citizens. As retired Army Colonel Asko Muhonen noted, Finland’s defense relies as much on the “mindset” of its people as it does on the military itself.

The exercise in Kuopio simulated a scenario in which critical infrastructure was disrupted by cyberattacks and missile strikes from Russia. While such a scenario may seem far-fetched to some, for Finns who lived through Soviet bombing campaigns during World War II, it is all too familiar. Veterans like Risto Mönkkönen, 95, still recall the trauma of those years, when an estimated 11% of Finnish territory was lost and over 400,000 people fled their homes.

Finland’s authorities are taking the lessons from Ukraine seriously. Dmytro Untila, a Ukrainian student at the university in Kuopio, shared his harrowing experience of sheltering in the entrance hall of his building during the initial days of the war. He emphasized that training for such situations would have made a significant difference in Ukraine.

Finland’s defense strategy goes beyond mere preparation for physical attacks. With the increasing threat of cyberattacks and sabotage, the country is also focusing on its digital vulnerabilities. The Savon Voima electricity company has reported a significant increase in cyberattacks since the invasion of Ukraine, including stickers placed on vulnerable parts of the energy network infrastructure.

The response to these threats requires a collective effort from citizens themselves. Vuokko Lahtinen, 32, highlighted the importance of community engagement and individual responsibility in maintaining Finland’s security. Her words echo the sentiment shared by many Finns: that the best defense against external threats is to make their country not worth attacking.

This peculiar blend of military preparedness and societal resilience has allowed Finland to maintain its independence despite being sandwiched between two powerful nations. As Lahtinen noted, “on a very simple daily level, if you do things that matter, then it has a butterfly-wing effect.” In Finland, this concept is not just a philosophical truism; it is an integral part of the national psyche.

As tensions with Russia continue to escalate, Finland’s example serves as a reminder that determination and collective action can be powerful deterrents. The world watches in awe at Finland’s defense preparedness, but one cannot help but wonder: what other countries might learn from this unlikely advantage?