Russia’s attack on Ukraine is impacting attitudes towards Russian speakers and individuals with dual Finnish-Russian citizenship.
An Yle survey of parliamentarians found that 34 would prohibit dual citizenship between Finland and Russia, while 36 would not. Twenty-six MPs said they were unsure.
The survey drew a number of responses, as only 96 out 200 lawmakers responded to the survey this time.
The survey exposed a divide in opinion on the issue of dual Finnish-Russian citizenship. The majority of MPs in favour of banning dual citizenship between these countries are from the Finns Party and the National Coalition Party.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo‘s government is looking into tightening requirements for gaining Finnish citizenship. At the same time, the Interior Ministry is looking into whether to change rules regarding dual citizenship.
At the end of last year, Finland was home to some 90,000 Russian speakers and 37,813 dual Russian citizens.
MPs in favour of disallowing dual Finnish-Russian nationality pointed out that Russia itself does not recognise dual citizenship.
Others, like Eva Biaudet, whose Swedish People Party is a coalition partner, said it was important not to get too excited.
“It is important to remain calm in the face of Russian provocation or hybrid activities. For many who have grown up in Finland, dual citizenship is an important part of their heritage or identity,” she said.
Source: Yle
