In response to a significant increase in the number of asylum-seekers entering Finland from Russia, the country's Parliament has approved a new legislation that grants border guards the power to refuse entry to certain migrants. The move comes amidst claims by the Finnish government that Russia is using migration as a tool for hybrid attacks, an allegation that the Kremlin denies.

The "act on temporary measures to combat instrumentalized migration" received the support of 167 lawmakers, while 31 voted against it, primarily citing concerns about potential human rights violations. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stated that the legislation sends a clear message to Russia and reinforces Finland's commitment to its own security and the security of the EU border.

The law is expected to be approved by President Alexander Stubb in the coming days and will be valid for one year. It enables Finland to restrict asylum applications on a monthly basis, in limited areas, when the country perceives threats to its sovereignty and national security. During this period, only specific vulnerable groups, such as children or individuals with disabilities, will be able to seek protection.

Critics within Finland have condemned the legislation, arguing that it contradicts human rights obligations entrenched in the country's constitution and international legal commitments. Left Alliance leader Li Andersson took to social media, calling it a "sad day for Finland's rule of law and human rights." Outside the Parliament, around 100 people gathered to protest what they referred to as the "deportation law."

Finland is not the only European country to implement such measures. Poland and Lithuania have also adopted similar policies in recent years, making it more challenging for migrants to enter the European Union from Russia or its ally Belarus.

Finland had temporarily closed its border with Russia in December due to the surge in migrant arrivals but later reopened two crossing points. The new legislation aims to address the specific challenges posed by the increasing number of asylum-seekers entering Finland from Russia, with the government alleging that the surge is orchestrated by Moscow.

The legislation signifies a significant step in Finland's efforts to combat "instrumentalized migration" and assert control over its borders. However, with concerns raised about human rights and potential violations, the implementation of the law is likely to be closely monitored by various critics and organizations.