Controversial Border Control Bill Passes Narrowly in Finland

Finnish lawmakers have passed a controversial bill allowing border guards to turn away migrants from Russia and reject asylum applications. The one-year temporary law, approved by 167 out of 200 lawmakers, has faced criticism for clashing with constitutional and international commitments.

In a closely contested decision, Finnish lawmakers have narrowly approved a controversial bill granting border guards the authority to turn away third-country migrants attempting to enter from neighboring Russia and to reject their asylum applications.

The government introduced the bill as a temporary measure to curb the entry of migrants, alleging that Moscow is engaging in 'hybrid warfare' by funneling undocumented migrants to the Finnish border. The new law will be valid for one year.

The bill required at least 167 votes to pass in the 200-seat Eduskunta, or Parliament, and just managed to secure the minimum number. Lawmakers from the Left Alliance and the Green League were among the 31 who opposed the bill, arguing that it conflicts with the Constitution of Finland and international rights commitments.

(With inputs from agencies.)