Finland has elected a new president, with former Prime Minister Alexander Stubb narrowly winning the runoff vote against independent candidate Pekka Haavisto. Stubb, of the centre-right National Coalition Party, secured 51.6 per cent of the votes, while Haavisto received 48.4 per cent. Stubb will succeed President Sauli Niinistö, whose term expires next month and who was ineligible for reelection.

Traditionally, Finnish politics are consensus-driven, and Stubb's visit to Haavisto's election party event after the result was clear exemplifies this approach. The presidency in Finland holds significant political power, particularly in formulating foreign and security policies alongside the government, as well as commanding the military. Stubb's presidency comes at a critical time, with Finland's NATO membership following Russia's attack on Ukraine in 2023, raising concerns about European security.

Stubb, aged 55, brings a wealth of political experience, having served as prime minister, finance minister, foreign minister, and minister for European affairs and foreign trade. He holds a doctorate in international politics and has worked as a professor. During his campaign, Stubb emphasized maintaining a firm stance towards Russia, strengthening security ties with the United States, and supporting Ukraine both militarily and civically.

His victory has garnered international attention, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy extending sincere congratulations and highlighting the shared commitment to European security. Finland's proximity to Russia, with a 1,340-kilometre border, underscores the significance of its foreign and security policies.

Concerns over the United States' commitment to NATO, particularly heightened by former President Donald Trump's remarks, add complexity to Stubb's presidency. Finnish media outlets have highlighted the unprecedented security challenges facing Europe since World War II, necessitating strong and decisive leadership.

Stubb's presidency begins amidst these uncertain times, with a focus on navigating Finland's role in European security, maintaining diplomatic relationships, and addressing domestic concerns while upholding the nation's moral leadership. With a voter turnout of 70.7 per cent in the runoff, the Finnish electorate has demonstrated its engagement in shaping the country's future.

Finland has elected a new president, with former Prime Minister Alexander Stubb narrowly winning the runoff vote against independent candidate Pekka Haavisto. Stubb, of the centre-right National Coalition Party, secured 51.6 per cent of the votes, while Haavisto received 48.4 per cent. Stubb will succeed President Sauli Niinistö, whose term expires next month and who was ineligible for reelection.

Traditionally, Finnish politics are consensus-driven, and Stubb's visit to Haavisto's election party event after the result was clear exemplifies this approach. The presidency in Finland holds significant political power, particularly in formulating foreign and security policies alongside the government, as well as commanding the military. Stubb's presidency comes at a critical time, with Finland's NATO membership following Russia's attack on Ukraine in 2023, raising concerns about European security.

Stubb, aged 55, brings a wealth of political experience, having served as prime minister, finance minister, foreign minister, and minister for European affairs and foreign trade. He holds a doctorate in international politics and has worked as a professor. During his campaign, Stubb emphasized maintaining a firm stance towards Russia, strengthening security ties with the United States, and supporting Ukraine both militarily and civically.

His victory has garnered international attention, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy extending sincere congratulations and highlighting the shared commitment to European security. Finland's proximity to Russia, with a 1,340-kilometre border, underscores the significance of its foreign and security policies.

Concerns over the United States' commitment to NATO, particularly heightened by former President Donald Trump's remarks, add complexity to Stubb's presidency. Finnish media outlets have highlighted the unprecedented security challenges facing Europe since World War II, necessitating strong and decisive leadership.

Stubb's presidency begins amidst these uncertain times, with a focus on navigating Finland's role in European security, maintaining diplomatic relationships, and addressing domestic concerns while upholding the nation's moral leadership. With a voter turnout of 70.7 per cent in the runoff, the Finnish electorate has demonstrated its engagement in shaping the country's future.