Today, during a plenary debate in Strasbourg with the Finnish Prime Minister, Petteri Orpo, S&D Group leader Iratxe García strongly criticised the reforms carried out by the Finnish government. In her speech, García expressed her deep concern as these reforms promote dismissals, undermine social dialogue and restrict the right to strike. Also, the Finnish conservative government aims to reduce public spending on pensions, unemployment benefits, housing and parental allowances.

In addition, the S&D leader asked Orpo if he is proud of “governing with a minister who, according to Politico, declared himself a Nazi, or having a minister who poses with scissors expressing satisfaction at cutting people’s income and social security.”

During the European Parliament’s plenary debate in Strasbourg, Iratxe García said:

“Finland is another example of the regression and the decline represented by the alliance between the European People’s Party and the far-right. Mr Orpo, your alliance with the far-right is a real threat to our democracy and to the European project. This is why the future of the European Union is at stake. 

“In times of uncertainty and great transformation, it is not enough to simply try to resist the reactionary wave. We have to move forward. We need a European project that makes citizens proud again to be European.

“Let’s continue building a Union that will be a beacon to inspire the world through its example of integration and progress. A Union with more democracy and more equality; a Union that makes the social pillar a reality with decent jobs and affordable housing; a Union that is more united and also more open; a Union at the forefront of the fight against climate change, committed to human rights, and that places people at the centre of the digital transformation. 

“Mr. Orpo, Mr. Weber, put an end to your alliance with those who want to destroy Europe. Your only enemy is the far-right. In the last century, your political family made a mistake by opening the door to the far-right, and Europe and the world paid a high price. Now, let’s say no to the darkness and yes to more years of hope and progress.” 

S&D MEP, Eero Heinäluoma, head of the Finnish delegation, added:  

“Finland has been a constructive EU member state, but now the Orpo government’s actions are raising questions across Europe. Is the Finnish pro-EU line, based on progress and respect for others, changing? We need a socially just and sustainable Europe, a Europe that provides well-being for citizens. This can only be achieved through dialogue, respect for collective bargaining and respect for others. The EU must also take more initiative in the field of security and defence.”