Our Candidacy

Working for Peace, People and Partnerships

Peace, People and Partnerships

Finland is seeking a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council to champion peace, to uphold international law and to promote the freedom, rights and well-being of all people. Finland will work for a Security Council that is more effective, accountable, and representative of today’s world.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen standing behind a podium and speaking to an audience, with the UN and Finnish flags in front.

Finland – A Trusted Partner for Peace

Finland is a strong advocate of the UN Charter and international law. We stand up for those who are most vulnerable and least represented, to build inclusive, lasting peace.

Finland works to strengthen international and UN peace mediation, emphasising inclusive participation and local ownership. For decades, we have been supporting dialogue and conflict prevention and resolution in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

Since 1956, Finland has contributed close to 60,000 troops, police, and civilian personnel to approximately 30 UN peace operations and those mandated by the UN. Building on this experience, we actively support and contribute to developing UN peace operations.

Finland underscores the urgency of joint solutions to respond to security threats posed by climate change and environmental degradation.

Finland calls for intensified efforts towards the peaceful settlement of disputes and promotes the use of all preventive tools available in the UN Charter.

Several female peacekeepers in uniform, with two in the foreground smiling and talking.

Investing in People

Finland stands for human rights as a cornerstone of conflict prevention and lasting peace. Through our own path as a nation, we have learned that human rights, gender equality, and social justice form the foundation for dignity, stability, and prosperity.

The full, equal, and meaningful participation of women is a prerequisite for sustainable peace. Finland is equally committed to ensuring that youth and persons with disabilities have a greater role in peace and security.

Finland calls for renewed respect for international humanitarian law and human rights law. Finland works for stronger accountability and the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

Finland is committed to principled humanitarian action. We contribute to where the needs are greatest, paying special attention to persons in the most vulnerable situations.

Schoolchildren wearing uniforms and carrying backpacks featuring Finnish flags and UNICEF logos.

Partnerships and Innovation for Sustainable Development

The world’s development challenges are too great for any nation to solve alone. International partnerships are essential for progress. Finland is a committed partner in promoting sustainable development, resilience, and prosperity. We have been an active partner to the UN for more than seven decades.

In building our society, Finland placed people, education, and technology at its core, ensuring that everyone can participate equally. Social innovations and strong institutions have been essential in our efforts to ensure equality and democracy.

The strengthening of economies is key for advancing well-being and prosperity for all. Finland supports partner countries in their efforts to increase economic resilience through innovation and multistakeholder partnerships.

Finland shares knowledge and technology to address risks posed by rapidly accelerating climate change. We have decades of experience in disaster risk reduction, integrating it into climate adaptation, development policy, humanitarian aid, and preparedness.

Peace is a question of will. All conflicts can be settled, and there are no excuses for allowing them to become eternal.
Martti Ahtisaari,
former President of Finland
and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate 2008