“The security study reveals that the risks associated with applying for NATO membership have been realistically assessed in Finland.” analyzed Fin.
“According to Finns, starting the membership process increases the risk of being the target of harmful actions by Russia, but on the other hand, it is believed that the risk has a reward. Threatening membership is estimated to protect against Russian actions and, for example, halve the likelihood of using military force from 30 percent to 14 percent of the membership process, which is lower than in the non-membership scenario. “
Respondents were asked to provide a percentage that reflects the likelihood of different events and scenarios. The averages thus reflect how likely a wider audience is to consider a particular scenario.
Speculation in Finland suggests that Russia is likely to resort to measures such as hybrid campaigns to try to disrupt and influence the NATO debate, for example. Finns have been urged to be prepared for disinformation on social media, cyber attacks, violations of border and territorial integrity, and the use of refugees as a tool for hybrid campaigns.
The Economic Survey interviewed 2,832 people from 14 April to 2 May.
Aleksi Teivainen – HT
Source: The Nordic Page