Finnish Peace Union Alarmed by Government’s Grant Cuts for Peace Work

The Finnish government’s recent decision to terminate grants for peace organizations has
sparked significant concern among civil society groups dedicated to peacebuilding and
disarmament. This policy, announced on April 26, 2024, as part of broader austerity
measures, aims to reduce public expenditure but is expected to severely impact organizations
such as the Peace Union of Finland (Rauhanliitto).
The Peace Union of Finland, an umbrella organization representing 16 peace associations,
has been vocal about the detrimental effects of these cuts. Executive Director Laura Lodenius
emphasized the challenges these measures have already caused, noting that their general
funding from the Ministry of Justice had been reduced by 60% in the previous year. The
complete cessation of funding in 2025 is expected to exacerbate these difficulties, potentially
crippling their advocacy and educational initiatives.
Government officials have justified the funding cuts by highlighting concerns over the
perceived impact of peace organizations on national defense. Some politicians have alleged
historical ties between these organizations and foreign entities. MP Atte Kaleva commented
that many peace organizations had close relations with the Soviet Union and later with
Russia, using this as a rationale for abolishing subsidies.

_{Source: Flickr – Rauhanliitto Fredsförbundet}

In response, peace organizations argue that these cuts are a political maneuver to suppress
dissenting voices within civil society. A joint press release issued by thirteen Finnish peace
organizations on May 3, 2024, condemned the decision, stressing that it undermines Finland’s
principles of peace and human rights.
Criticism of the government’s austerity measures extends beyond peace organizations.
Analysts warn that broader spending cuts targeting healthcare and social security could push
thousands into poverty, exacerbating inequality and undermining public trust in institutions.
As implementation approaches, peace organizations, including Rauhanliitto, are mobilizing
efforts to advocate for restoring funding. They emphasize that peacebuilding initiatives play
an essential role in promoting stability, preventing conflict, and upholding democratic values.

Sources:

Civic Space Watch: Impact of Government’s Austerity Package on CSOs
Jacobin: Finland’s Austerity and Neoliberalism
Reuters: Finland to Spend More on Defence, NATO and Security