Young adults in Finland show strong support for national defence while expressing concern about the country’s future security environment, according to a new survey commissioned by the Finnish Defence Forces.

The study, conducted by E2 Research, found that 47 per cent of respondents aged 18 to 30 are concerned about Finland’s current security situation and external threats. More than 40 per cent believe people in Finland will live in a less secure world within five years.

Despite these concerns, confidence in national defence remains high. Over 80 per cent of respondents said they trust the Defence Forces’ ability to protect the country against military threats. At the same time, 78 per cent said they would be willing to defend Finland in the event of an armed attack, either with or without weapons.

A majority of respondents, 58 per cent, described themselves as having a defence-minded outlook. Yet the survey also showed that 75 per cent oppose war and violence on principle, including many who said they would still take part in defence if required.

Rami Saari, lieutenant general and head of personnel at the Defence Forces, said the findings reflect both commitment and openness among younger generations. “Young people show strong willingness to defend the country and trust in our capabilities,” he said.

Views on conscription revealed divisions. Around 54 per cent of respondents said the current system, which applies only to men, conflicts with principles of equality. A further 38 per cent disagreed. Men were slightly more critical of the current model than women.

Supporters of the existing system pointed to reliability, cost efficiency and differences in physical capacity as reasons to maintain the structure.

Opinion also split on defence spending. Some 36 per cent said Finland should increase defence funding even if it meant cuts to other public services, while 49 per cent opposed such a move.

The survey highlighted differences across groups. Women, those in weaker financial positions and respondents with lower trust in others reported higher levels of concern about security. Those who had completed military service or reported stronger financial stability were more likely to view the situation as stable.

Information sources varied by age. Social media emerged as the most common source for defence-related information, cited by 49 per cent of respondents, followed by television news at 48 per cent and news websites or print media at 41 per cent. Discussions with family and friends were also significant, mentioned by 44 per cent.

Among younger respondents aged 18 to 22, 60 per cent said they rely on social media for such information, compared with 37 per cent among those aged 27 to 30.

Ville Pitkänen, research director at E2 Research, said attitudes among young adults reflect a mix of views. “Strong defence support and trust exist alongside concern, criticism and debate on equality,” he said.

The survey is based on responses from 2,030 people collected in November 2025, supported by interviews. It forms part of ongoing research into public attitudes towards defence and conscription in Finland.

HT