In a move aimed at addressing its concerns about migration challenges, Finland's parliament has approved a controversial bill that grants border guards the power to block asylum seekers attempting to cross from Russia. The Finnish government has accused Russia of weaponizing migration by allegedly encouraging people from countries like Syria and Somalia to cross the border. The Kremlin has denied these allegations.

The Finnish authorities believe that Russia is promoting these border crossings as a form of retaliation for Finland's decision to join NATO, which supports Ukraine against Russia's invasion. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, who leads the right-wing government, emphasized that the bill sends a strong message to Russia and Finland's allies, highlighting the nation's commitment to its own security and that of the EU border.

The bill's passage has sparked opposition from various groups, including academics, legal experts, and human rights organizations. Critics argue that the legislation contradicts Finland's constitution, as well as international rights commitments set by the United Nations and pledges made by the EU and other international treaties that Finland has signed.

Since the middle of last year, over 1,300 asylum seekers have entered Finland from Russia. However, there were no new arrivals since March until Thursday when one person illegally crossed the border and applied for asylum upon being apprehended by a border guard. Last year, Finland closed its land borders with Russia in response to the escalating situation.

Interior Minister Mari Rantanen noted that no decision has been made yet on when to reopen the border crossings with Russia. Finland's actions align with similar measures taken by European countries like Poland and Lithuania in recent years, making it increasingly challenging for asylum seekers to cross the Russian border and the Russia-aligned Belarus.

The bill garnered 167 votes in favor, 31 against, and one abstention in the 200-seat parliament, meeting the requirement for a two-thirds majority to pass. Lawmakers from the Left Alliance and the Green League were among those voting against the bill. However, it still awaits approval from President Alexander Stubb.

Under the new law, Finnish border guards will have the authority to reject asylum applications at the crossing points under specific circumstances. However, this does not apply to children, disabled individuals, and asylum seekers deemed by border guards to be in particularly vulnerable positions.

Prime Minister Orpo urged individuals considering embarking on the journey via Russia not to rely on smugglers and emphasized that Finland is taking its border security seriously. He stated firmly that Russia's orchestrated access to the borders will not translate into access to Finland or Europe.

While Moscow has denied any intention of encouraging migration, the Russian embassy in Helsinki did not provide an immediate response for comment on Finland's recent actions.

As Finland enforces stricter controls at its Russian border, the impacts of this new legislation and its implications for migration dynamics in the region remain to be seen.