In Finland, Left Alliance MP Timo Furuholm is calling for an increase in daily allowances for conscripts, arguing that the current rates are too low to adequately support those fulfilling their mandatory military service. He points out that inadequate compensation could deter individuals from the military and reduce interest in leadership training programs. Furuholm emphasizes that with billions being allocated to defense, it is unjust and unsustainable for conscripts to struggle financially while serving their country.

The recent raise in daily allowances, which went up by five cents at the beginning of February, still leaves many conscripts reporting difficulties making ends meet. As of now, conscripts are receiving €6.15 for the first 165 days, followed by higher allowances scaling up to €14.15 for the latter periods of service. However, feedback from a survey conducted by Ilta-Sanomat indicates widespread dissatisfaction among service members regarding the adequacy of these allowances.

In light of this situation, the Varusmiesliitto (Soldiers' Union) has also expressed concern, noting that many conscripts are compelled to rely on their savings to get by. Furuholm's statements highlight a crucial issue within the Finnish military system, as they call attention to the need for equitable treatment of service members in terms of compensation, especially in the broader context of increasing defense budgets.