Topic: 2025 – Authoritarianism and Democracy
Country: Finland
Delegate Name: Viviana Stiegler
Country: Finland
Committee: SPECPOL
Delegate: Viviana Stiegler
Conference: GLIMUN 2025
Finland is internationally recognized as one of the strongest liberal democracies in the world. The Finnish government operates through a parliamentary system with clearly defined limitations on executive authority, strong judicial independence, and a political culture deeply rooted in transparency and accountability. Freedom House continues to score Finland at 100/100, citing its free media, rule of law, and robust civil liberties (“Finland”). Finnish elections are competitive, multi-party, and monitored by independent authorities, while civil society plays a significant role in political participation. For these reasons, Finland clearly falls into the category of a fully consolidated democracy, placing it among the most stable democratic states worldwide.
Protecting democracy in new democracies requires a combination of institutional development, civic education, and external support. Finland believes that the first step for any emerging democracy is the establishment of transparent and trustworthy electoral systems. The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) notes that comprehensive election observation can significantly increase public confidence and decrease opportunities for fraud (“Election Observation”). Finland supports expanding such missions, particularly in states transitioning from conflict or authoritarian rule. Additionally, Finland emphasizes the importance of empowering civil society organizations that advocate for human rights, transparency, and anti-corruption regulations, as these groups form the backbone of democratic accountability.
To protect and strengthen democratic institutions in electoral autocracies—countries where elections exist but lack genuine competition—Finland believes that international engagement must focus on both pressure and support. Targeted sanctions against individuals who undermine democratic processes, combined with diplomatic engagement and technical assistance, can help encourage transitions toward democracy. Finland also advocates for global cooperation to counter election interference, including cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. These tactics have been documented in several vulnerable states, demonstrating the need for international cyber assistance programs that help developing governments protect their political systems. Ultimately, Finland maintains that democracy requires strong institutions, informed citizens, and consistent international support, especially when democratic norms are threatened.
