JEF Finland celebrated its 29th anniversary on Friday, 14 August 2026, at the traditional Castle Seminar held at Haikko Manor. At the anniversary celebration, recognitions were once again awarded to distinguished members and stakeholders.
The Executive Board decided to award three recognitions this year.
A Special Recognition was awarded to Miapetra Kumpula-Natri for her significant work in advancing JEF Finland’s values and activities, both during the organisation’s early years and throughout her terms as an MEP and Member of Parliament. Kumpula-Natri chaired the Friends of the EU parliamentary network, established together with European Movement organisations, from 2024 to 2026, and through it also strengthened young people’s voice in the European debate.
Silver Merit Badges were awarded to Samuel Tammekann and Nea-Bettina Baarman.
Tammekann has had a long career in JEF Finland, both nationally and internationally, and in his time actively developed the organisation’s political visibility and international advocacy. Tammekann has continued to follow and support JEF Finland’s work even after his own active career in the organisation.
Baarman has held various roles in JEF Finland for ten years, most recently serving as President from 2024 to 2025. During her term as President, Baarman carried JEF Finland through the most difficult period in its history and carried out determined work to stabilise the organisation.
The badge regulations were introduced in 2025, and the new tradition was prepared in cooperation with both former and current JEF Finland activists. Under the regulations, there are three levels of recognition, and badges are awarded annually at the anniversary celebration or another suitable occasion. These recognitions make it possible to acknowledge and thank those who have left their mark on the organisation’s work and on advancing European cooperation in Finland.
More information:
Pieta Päivänen, President of the Executive Board
+358 50 552 2212