Finnish Government Proposes Extension of Border Security Act Until 2028
The Finnish government has proposed extending the validity of the Border Security Act—commonly referred to as the Pushback Act—until the end of 2028, citing persistent security concerns at the eastern border. The Ministry of the Interior has sent the draft law for consultation, with the aim of submitting it to Parliament in September 2026.
The act, which entered into force on 22 July 2024, allows Finland to restrict the reception of asylum applications in designated border areas if Russia is deemed to be using migration as a tool to pressure Finland. According to the Ministry of the Interior, the law was initially valid for one year but was extended in 2025 until 31 December 2026. Its application requires a separate government decision each time it is enforced (Daily Finland).
Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen stated that security authorities assess the threat of instrumentalised migration at Finland’s eastern border to remain high for the foreseeable future, with no rapid changes in the security situation expected. The act provides border authorities with the necessary powers to counter such threats effectively (Daily Finland).
Finland’s land border with Russia has remained closed since December 2023, following a series of government decisions in response to an increase in asylum seekers arriving via Russia. The most recent closure decision, issued on 4 June 2026, remains in effect indefinitely (Yle, Daily Finland).
While land border crossings remain shut, applications for international protection can still be submitted at other open border points, including those handling air and maritime traffic (Yle). The government has repeatedly adjusted border policies in recent years, including temporary reopenings and subsequent closures, in response to fluctuating migration pressures (Daily Finland).