I want it to be possible in Finland to speak openly about the issues that concern people, even when these issues are inconvenient for those in power or the views expressed do not coincide with the majority opinion.
One such issue is the closed eastern border. It has now been closed for over a thousand days. Behind this figure lie the fates of thousands of people. Finnish citizens and residents have found themselves separated from their parents, children and other loved ones living in Russia. For many a routine visit to their family has turned into a difficult, expensive and lengthy journey via third countries. Their voices must be heard in Parliament.
The border closure also has serious economic consequences. These are felt particularly harshly in Eastern Finland: by border towns, businesses, trade, tourism and transport. At the same time, the problem has long since extended beyond the border regions.
Finland’s security is undoubtedly important. However, decisions taken in the name of security that significantly restrict people’s lives must be regularly assessed in terms of their necessity, proportionality and consequences. A complex foreign policy situation should not mean an end to public debate. Parliament has a duty to put these questions to the government and demand substantive answers.
But this is not just about the border. I want to live in a country where a person’s background, their native language, family ties or a viewpoint that differs from the majority do not become a reason to treat them with suspicion. In a country where equality truly means equality for all, and where discrimination is fought regardless of whom it is directed against.
Freedom of speech is particularly valuable precisely when the expressed opinion is unpopular. Disagreeing with a specific government decision does not mean disloyalty to Finland. The ability to challenge those in power, demand explanations from them and seek a review of their decisions is an essential part of a democratic society. Today there are people who feel that their problems are being ignored, their arguments are not being listened to, and their views are dismissed even before a conversation begins. These people also must be represented in Parliament.
Parliament exists not only to pass laws. It must represent different groups of society, hold the authorities to account, ask difficult questions and remember that behind every political decision there are real people.
That is precisely why I am standing in the 2027 parliamentary elections as an independent candidate on the Freedom Alliance list in the Uusimaa electoral district. I do not promise simple solutions to complex problems. I promise something else: to speak openly about them, to foster meaningful dialogue, and to represent those who today feel that their voices are not being heard.
Alexey Bulavtsev, Parliamentary election candidate 2027 (Uusimaa), vice-chairman of the Alexander Union, engineer