President Alexander Stubb outlined ambitious goals for Finland for 2026. In his traditional New Year’s speech, broadcast live on national TV (Yle) at noon, he offered insights on how to make the year better not only for ourselves but for others as well.
President Alexander Stubb opened 2026 with a New Year’s speech addressed to the nation.
He began by giving a retrospective summary of various encounters across Finland, meeting people from the young to the elderly. Over the year, President Stubb visited schools, barracks, marketplaces, and nursing homes, among other places.
“These encounters reinforced my belief that we have nothing to worry about. And that this year, we Finns will do even better,” Stubb said. “Each of us can influence whether we continue to have nothing to worry about through our own actions. Every Finn’s contribution matters. Yours. Mine. Ours.”
The president listed reasons to be proud of Finland and Finnishness: “For many, we are a model country. We have an open, democratic and functional society. Our standard of living is relatively high. Our education system is world-class. Many want to learn from our security of supply. Our overall security is admired. Our authorities work together brilliantly, as we have seen in recent days. Our armed forces are respected.”
President Stubb proposed three goals for Finland this year: peace, growth and caring.
Peace
- Local and regional conflicts are on the rise. We Finns are peacemakers, and our contribution is needed.
- Our goal has been to maximize Finland’s influence in the world, especially in matters that are important to us, such as justice, democracy and freedom.
- The main focus has been on supporting Ukraine, our allies and global partnerships.
- Our relationship with Russia has changed permanently. However, Russia is our neighbor. Our goal in Finland and Europe is to maintain a functional and peaceful relationship with Russia, but ultimately, everything depends on Russia’s actions.
- Foreign policy is never black and white; it is full of shades of gray. It is in Finland’s interest to see the world as it is, not just as we wish it to be. This means being honest with ourselves. Finnish diplomacy is not based on moralizing or identity politics, but on values, interests, and actions. An active foreign policy and sensible solutions increase Finland’s influence.
- Finland and Europe’s relationship with the United States is undergoing a transition. We must adapt to the new situation. Cooperation remains valuable to both sides. Last year, examples included icebreaker deals, defense cooperation and peace negotiations in Ukraine.
- Finland’s closest friends are in the Nordic countries and Europe. Our security is built on strong defense and membership in NATO and the EU.
Growth
- I am concerned about the state of Finland’s public finances. Geopolitical uncertainties and Russia’s war of aggression are hitting our economy particularly hard. Responsible public finances are a continuum, not just the responsibility of a single government. One government cannot make adjustments while the next spends lavishly.
- Growth is the foundation of our entire welfare society. Without growth, there can be no welfare. We have everything we need to achieve sustainable growth, and there are many paths to take. It all starts with expertise, research, and education. We must invest in these areas even more than before.
- Yesterday’s growth does not benefit tomorrow. Growth requires courage and hard work. We must invest in new areas and ensure that Finland remains attractive to new investments and skilled people. It is safe to invest in NATO Finland now and in the future.
- Technological development affects everything, and fortunately, we have expertise in this field. Information networks, quantum technology and critical minerals are our strengths. These are needed at the heart of the technological revolution, especially in artificial intelligence.
- Given current population trends and age structure, it is clear we need more work-based immigration. The question is how we as a society can adapt to this new reality.
- The fight against climate change risks being overshadowed by ongoing global turmoil. This should not happen. Climate change is an existential issue for us. Countries that take climate change seriously will gain a competitive advantage. Finland must continue to invest in green growth in its economy.
Caring
- Finland continues to be one of the best countries in the world by almost every measure. We are the happiest people in the world.
- However, not all Finns are well or happy. Often, the fundamentals are not in order. There are economic difficulties, unemployment, insecurity, health concerns, domestic violence, and racism. We must do better.
- It is society’s responsibility to support those who, for various reasons, cannot find their place. As fellow human beings, it is our duty to care for and help those in need.
- Caring means showing appreciation to a colleague, student, teacher, or loved one. Appreciation makes a person feel seen, and we all need that. Sometimes caring also requires sacrifice—putting yourself aside.
- When the world around us seems extremely serious, we must find joy alongside it; otherwise, we wither and become cynical. That joy is often found in friends, colleagues and activities that spark our curiosity.
- In addition to harsh realism, we need imagination and culture. Many beautiful things and significant inventions have come from the human ability to imagine.
President Stubb concluded his speech by stressing that society and democracy require ongoing effort and appreciation. Despite global challenges, optimism is important. Finland provides a great environment for families, and its independence should be celebrated.
As a resilient nation, Finns should remain hopeful and united in pursuing peace, growth and care.
