Photo : Finnish Government
24 November 2023, Friday | NIAS Europe Daily Brief #682
EM in Brief
By Rishika Yadav
FINLAND
Ministry of Finance proposed 2024 budget amendment
On 23 November, the Ministry of Finance submitted a proposal to Parliament, to amend the 2024 budget. Changes involved backing Ukraine with EUR 95.7 million for Defence Forces’ material procurement and increasing Finnfund’s capital by EUR 25 million for Ukraine’s investments. Funding adjustments are aimed to aid Finland’s businesses in Ukraine’s reconstruction. A restructuring plan was proposed to ease the burden on local governments by delaying central government transfer reductions. Additionally, appropriations were recommended for adjusting housing allowance, social assistance, and family grants. Other allocations included investments in railways, language services, and culture. Revenue is estimated to increase by EUR 76 million, while net government borrowing to decrease by EUR 124 million. (“Government proposes amendments to 2024 budget proposal,” Finnish Government, 23 November 2023)
Launches offshore wind auction
On 23 November, ministries of agriculture, economic affairs and employment and the environment passed a resolution to initiate auctions for offshore wind power sites in public water regions. These areas, managed by Metsahallitus, will undergo leasing and project rights sale for renewable energy development, with lease terms up to 50 years. Sari Essayah, Finland’s spokesperson highlighted the move’s impact on clean energy transition and its economic benefits, expecting a third increase in Finland’s electricity production. The 860 square kilometer sites could generate 7,500 MW, involving about 500 turbines, potentially attracting EUR three to four billion investment. The state and municipalities will benefit financially, and the move aligns with Metsahallitus’s statutory duties. (“Metsähallitus launches auctions concerning large-scale offshore wind power projects,” Finnish Government, 23 November 2023)
Frontex reinforces border amidst Russia’s accusations
On 23 November, Frontex, the EU border agency, intends to send 50 officers and equipment to aid Finland’s border control amid allegations of Russia fueling an immigrant surge. With most eastern border crossings closing until 23 December, Frontex’s bolstering is aimed to address escalating tensions. Hans Leijtens, Frontex’s Executive Director, emphasized the EU’s unified stance against hybrid threats, extending beyond logistics. Russia criticized Finland’s abrupt closure of checkpoints, calling it provocative and lacking prior consultation. Finland’s border guard reported 415 individuals seeking asylum with insufficient documents, suspecting a foreign state’s involvement in illegal border crossings. (Pierre Emmanuel Ngendakumana, “EU to deploy more guards to bolster Finland’s border control efforts,” POLITICO, 23 November 2023; “EU deploys agents to help Finland bolster Russian border,” Deutsche Welle, 23 November 2023)
IRELAND
Paschal Donohoe launches 2023-2027 Open Data Strategy
On 23 November, Paschal Donohoe, the Minister for Public Expenditure, introduced the 2023-2027 Open Data Strategy. The strategy is aimed to distribute and facilitate access to public body data for the next five years freely. The framework outlined goals for data publishers, platform development, and users, with over 15,000 datasets and nearly 150 publishers on the Open Data Portal (data.gov.ie), the strategy envisioned easy access to high-quality government data, emphasizing trust and innovation. During the COVID-19 crisis, Open Covid data played a crucial role in disseminating essential information, aiding public adherence to safety measures. Donohoe highlighted Open Data’s significance in enhancing public services, transparency, and fostering trust in governance. Ireland’s leadership in Open Data management continues to evolve, aiming for optimal data utilization. (“Minister Donohoe Launches New Open Data Strategy,” gov.ie, 23 November 2023)
Dublin knife attack triggers far-right fueled violence
On 23 November, Dublin witnessed violent protests following a knife attack injuring five, including three children at Parnell Square East. A police car and tram were set ablaze as officers were assaulted in the city center. Reports suggested anti-immigrant slogans were chanted during the chaos. Drew Harris, Police Commissioner attributed the unrest to a “hooligan faction driven by far-right ideology.” Helen McEntee, Minister of Justice urged calm, condemning assaults on law enforcement. The stabbings occurred near a school, leaving three seriously injured and two with lesser wounds. Authorities have arrested a man in connection with the incident, initially ruled non-terror-related but now under comprehensive scrutiny for motives. (Paul Dallison, “Violent Dublin protests blamed on ‘far-right ideology’ after 5 injured in knife attack,” POLITICO, 23 November 2023; “Five people wounded, including three children, in Dublin knife attack,” Euronews, 23 November 2023)
NORWAY
Hydrogen chain feasibility study published to connect with Germany
On 23 November, the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy released the joint feasibility study on a hydrogen value chain connecting Norway and Germany. The report confirmed the technical feasibility of transporting substantial hydrogen quantities between the countries, given specific conditions. Terje Aasland, Minister of Petroleum and Energy commended state-owned company, Gassco, and Deutsche Energie Agentur (DENA), Germany’s Energy Agency for leading the study. Commissioned by both governments, the industry-driven study evaluated the potential of the hydrogen chain’s viability between both countries, focusing on market readiness, regulatory aspects, and technology. (“Feasibility study on a hydrogen value chain between Norway and Germany,” Government.no, 23 November 2023)
THE NETHERLANDS
Geert Wilders’ party dominates polls; coalition talks await
On 23 November, Geert Wilders’ Party for Freedom (PVV) secured 37 of 150 parliamentary seats in the general elections. Wilders, known for anti-immigration and anti-EU views, is aimed to form a government with the centre and left parties, the opposition labour and green parties have denied joining with PVV. Coalition negotiations among multiple parties is expected to last for many months. Mark Rutte, Prime Minister remains caretaker until a new government is formed. Far-right party leaders from Hungary, France, and Italy congratulated Wilders. (“Geert Wilders: Far-right populist wins big in Dutch election,” Deutsche Welle, 23 November 2023)
THE UK
Strengthen defence ties with Turkey
On 23 November, the UK and Turkey, reinforced their commitment to bolster stability, security, and prosperity through closer collaboration. Grant Shapps, Defence Secretary and Yasar Guler, Turkey’s Minister of National Defence, signed a Statement of Intent, emphasizing increased cooperation in defence. The agreement paves way for joint activities, including enhanced engagement in defence industries, potential joint training exercises in the Mediterranean, and security support in North Africa and the Middle East. Both countries reiterated support for Ukraine. Discussions also included on Turkey’s role in facilitating the export of Ukraine’s grain and the need for de-escalation in the Middle East. (“UK and Türkiye to boost stability, security and prosperity,” GOV.UK, 23 November 2023)
INTERNATIONAL
EU condemns North Korea’s satellite launch
On 23 November, the EU condemned North Korea’s military satellite launch on 21 November using ballistic missile technology and called it a direct threat to global peace. The EU urged the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) to halt such provocative actions, urging UN members to encourage meaningful dialogue for denuclearization. It called on the DPRK and Russia to comply with UN sanctions, refrain from military exchanges, and condemned any arms transfers linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Emphasizing the need for DPRK’s adherence to UNSC resolutions, it advocated for returning to Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) compliance and peaceful initiatives for stability in the Korean peninsula, supporting South Korea and Japan. (“DPRK/North Korea: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the satellite launch,” European Council, 23 November 2023)