Finns prioritise security over climate goals, Sitra survey finds

A majority of Finns would prioritise security over climate targets if forced to choose, according to a new survey by the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra and the Finnish Business and Policy Forum EVA.

The study, conducted by Taloustutkimus in March with over 2,000 Finnish respondents and more than 30 EU experts, reveals shifting attitudes toward the European Union. Finns increasingly view the EU not just as an economic alliance but as a critical security framework capable of protecting member states and reducing harmful dependencies amid global instability.

Three-quarters (77%) of Finns support reducing Europe’s economic and technological reliance on the US—even at the cost of weakened transatlantic relations. Researchers clarify this does not reflect anti-American sentiment but rather a distinction between security cooperation and economic-technological dependence.

Chinese investments in critical infrastructure face strong scepticism, with 74% backing stricter restrictions on port, energy grid, and other strategic asset ownership. The survey indicates Finns now treat infrastructure as a security resource requiring protection rather than a standard investment opportunity.

Support for European industrial policy is high: 75% favour prioritising EU-based companies in public procurement, even if it raises costs. Nearly as many (73%) endorse forging new trade partnerships with emerging economies like India, Brazil, or Vietnam to curb dependence on China.

When forced to choose, 63% would slow climate action to reduce reliance on Chinese technology—such as batteries and electric vehicles—despite its central role in Europe’s green transition. China currently dominates production of solar panels, EVs, and battery tech, creating structural dependencies.

The findings underscore a broader recalibration of Finnish and European priorities, where security concerns increasingly outweigh other policy goals, including climate objectives.