The varying degrees and meanings of Nordicness in Finnish foreign policy

Geography and political history make Finland a borderline Nordic country: one that has not always self-evidently been part of the Nordic countries, but also a country for which being identified as Nordic has been all the more important. Finland has successfully used “Nordicness” as an instrument to recognition and influence internationally. Historically, the Nordic neighbours have been a reference group of outstanding value for the country, and a platform from which to approach particularly the UN. But in what sense would its foreign policy be “Nordic”? While some of the “exceptional” features of Nordicness, such as internationalism or solidarity, may well apply to Finland, the country has also stood out because of security political considerations. Perhaps more than the other Nordics, it would place security first and not place values before interests. At the same time, the importance of Nordic cooperation has considerably increased in security and defence policy, with strong support among the political parties and the public. This article aims at shedding light on the meanings of “Nordicness” in Finland and on its use as an instrument in foreign policy. It also discusses bilateral relations with Sweden as a special manifestation of “Nordicness”.