Finnish Peacekeeper Association considers rebranding as veterans’ organization to expand services

The Finnish Peacekeeper Association is considering rebranding itself as a veterans’ organization in light of plans to extend its services to those who have served in operations beyond peacekeeping and crisis management. This marks the second time the organization has contemplated a name change; it was previously known as the Blue Beret Association until November 2005, referencing the hats worn by peacekeepers.

Ville Mäntysaari, the Executive Director of the Peacekeeper Association, expressed a strong desire for the term “veteran” to be reflected in the organization’s name. The term “crisis management” no longer seems relevant within the organization’s context, and a shift away from naming itself as “crisis management veterans” may be on the horizon, as this term appears to be becoming outdated.

In Finland, the term “veteran” traditionally refers to individuals who served in the wars of 1918, the Winter War, the Continuation War, and the Lapland War. Some veteran organizations, such as the Brothers of War Disabled, have previously decided not to accept new members, wishing to conserve resources specifically for those injured in earlier conflicts.

The Peacekeeper Association emphasizes the importance of post-deployment support for veterans returning from various military missions. The need for support may rise particularly due to NATO-led operations. The association provides services including a crisis hotline for peacekeepers and their families to access counseling around the clock. Symptoms of post-traumatic stress reactions can emerge even decades after exposure to life-threatening situations.

The precarious situation in Lebanon raises concerns for the Peacekeeper Association; however, the ongoing status of the UNIFIL operation has not significantly increased calls to their support line. The demand for conversation assistance notably surged following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. UNIFIL stands for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.