SDP calls on Finland to recognise Palestinian state before UN summit

By admin On May 24, 2025

Chair of the Social Democratic Party Antti Lindtman at the statutory spring meeting of the SDP party council in Helsinki on 24 May 2025. Photo: Markku Ulander / Lehtikuva

Social Democratic Party chair Antti Lindtman has called on Finland to prepare for the recognition of a Palestinian state, urging the government to act before next month’s United Nations peace summit in New York.

Speaking at the party council meeting on Saturday, Lindtman said Finland should respond to France’s push for coordinated recognition of Palestinian statehood across Europe. He argued that early action would strengthen Finland’s international standing and show support for a two-state solution.

“The government must begin preparations to recognise Palestine without delay,” Lindtman told party members. He also demanded a formal government report to Parliament addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and outlining steps towards recognition.

According to Lindtman, a clear majority of MPs would support statehood for Palestine if the matter were brought before the legislature.

“The Christian Democrats and the Finns Party are blocking this,” he said. “It seems there will never be a right time for them.”

Earlier this month, Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen (NCP) said Finland had no plans to rush into recognition, contrasting with Sweden, Norway, and Ireland, which have all announced their intention to recognise Palestine.

France has called for a joint European approach to the issue, hoping to unify positions ahead of the UN peace talks. While some EU states are moving independently, Finland’s current centre-right government has remained cautious.

The SDP’s call comes amid rising domestic support. A Helsingin Sanomat poll this week placed the party’s backing at 25.3 percent, the highest level in two decades. The SDP is currently the largest opposition force in Parliament.

Recognition of Palestinian statehood remains a contentious issue in Finnish politics. Finland has long supported a negotiated two-state solution, but has so far stopped short of formal recognition.

Lindtman’s comments mark a shift in tone and place added pressure on Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s government to clarify its position ahead of the UN summit.

Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi