Finnish professor advocates for reopening border crossing point with Russia

A professor of border studies at the University of Eastern Finland, Jussi P. Laine, has proposed that Finland open one of its border crossing points on the eastern border. However, some researchers, like senior advisor Hanna Smith from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), oppose this idea, arguing that Finland should maintain strict border controls.

Laine presents several arguments for his proposal. He notes that Finland demonstrated its ability to respond quickly and make tough decisions regarding border security. However, he questions the rationale behind the current tight border closure, stating that the situation is calm at the border. He suggests that it might be time to open a crossing point on a limited basis to test the waters, pointing out the implications for dual citizens and families living on either side of the border.

Laine emphasizes the value of direct interaction with Russia, advocating for the importance of understanding what occurs across the border, rather than relying solely on media reports from Russia. He believes that the Finnish Border Guard could effectively address any potential issues if a crossing point were opened.

Moreover, Laine expresses skepticism about border barriers, viewing them as primarily psychological measures. Finland shares nearly 1,100 kilometers of land border with Russia, and some sections are currently undergoing barrier construction. He recalls that there were once only seven border walls globally, and now there are over 90, asserting that such barriers rarely resolve the underlying problems they are meant to address.

In Estonia, three border crossing points with Russia remain open, but pending construction of barriers further complicates border traffic. Experts there acknowledge the necessity of restricted access due to current conditions, reflecting a shared sentiment among NATO researchers who gathered in Joensuu this week to discuss border issues.