Finland and the European Union
Act of Accession to the EU signed by Finland in 1994
Finland acceded to the European Union on 1 January 1995. The accession was preceded by a referendum in October 1994. A total of 57 per cent of voters were in favour of Finland's membership of the EU. Parliament decided on Finland’s accession to the European Union on 18 November 1994.
Finland held the rotating Presidency of the European Union during the latter halves of 1999 and 2006.
Government Programme of Jyrki Katainen
Prime Minister Katainen’s Government Programme was submitted to Parliament in the form of a Government statement on 22 June 2011. According tho the Government Programme the European Union is a natural political community for Finland, the development of which enhances the latter’s stability, prosperity and security. Finland is a participatory and proactive Member State of the European Union. Finland will promote the development of a competitive, socially just and effectively functioning European Union.
Government EU policies
The Government submits statements and reports on important EU issues to Parliament. The Prime Minister may also submit announcements on EU affairs that fall within the Government’s mandate.
The Government may issue a U communication. U matters cover those European Union affairs that fall within the mandate of Parliament. These may relate to EU legislation, financial issues or relations with third countries.
EU related reports, statements and announcements