Mar 10 • 18:05 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Ilta-Sanomat

The Finns Party became enthusiastic about the removal of pensions for immigrants: Initiative submitted to Parliament

A proposal has been submitted to the Finnish Parliament to eliminate pensions for immigrants as a means to strengthen the pension system's sustainability.

A parliamentary initiative has been introduced in Finland, proposing the removal of national and guarantee pensions for immigrants. This move is spearheaded by MP Ari Koponen from the Finns Party, who asserts that the initiative aims to bolster the sustainability of Finland's pension system while reducing incentives for immigration based on social security benefits. Koponen's proposal draws inspiration from comments made by Suvi-Anne Siimes, the outgoing CEO of the Finnish Pensions Alliance and former chairman of the Left Alliance, who criticized the ease with which immigrants can access pensions in Finland.

The proposal highlights a growing concern among certain political factions in Finland regarding immigration and its impact on the social welfare system. Koponen emphasizes that the core rationale of the Finnish pension system is that benefits should accrue from actual work performed, suggesting that reforms are necessary to prevent social security-related immigration incentives. Despite this, the initiative has raised eyebrows, with critics citing the possible implications for the welfare of vulnerable groups who rely on these pensions.

Social and Health Ministry Department Head Liisa Siika-aho has expressed skepticism towards the initiative, questioning its practicality and the potential consequences of excluding a demographic that contributes to society in various capacities. This proposal reflects ongoing debates in Finland surrounding immigration policy, social benefits, and the economic structure of the pension system, raising important questions about equity, inclusion, and the future of welfare provisions in response to demographic changes.

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