Finland’s presidency of the European Union ends at the turn of the year. One of the most important goals set for Finland’s presidency was to strengthen the EU’s position as a global climate leader. Finland has made use of the opportunities offered by the presidency and sought to advance the fight against climate change in the Union’s decision-making. However, much was still left to be done. JEF Finland’s General Assembly convened in Tampere on 30 November-1 December, demanding significant climate action and leadership from Finland in EU decision-making.
“Even though Finland’s presidency is ending, we cannot breathe a sigh of relief. Climate change is advancing at an alarming pace, and determined work must continue at the EU level to curb it. Unfortunately, we are not even close to sufficient emission reductions yet. Without a habitable planet, nothing else matters,” states Iiris Asunmaa, elected JEF Finland President for 2020.
The European Union forms an economic area of more than half a billion consumers and is therefore a popular trading partner. This gives it the ability to create legislation and standards that are followed all over the world. Finland therefore also has a duty, even after its EU presidency, to exert influence within the Union through proactive action for the climate.
“We are entering a new decade, during which we must be able to make radical changes. We do not need to wait for the next presidency to punch above our weight on the world stage, to make new openings, and to stand up for the things important to us by combating climate change. Declaring a climate emergency is not enough — concrete action is needed,” sums up Asunmaa.
The General Assembly elected JEF Finland’s Executive Board for 2020. Iiris Asunmaa continues as President. Lauri Ikola and Tuomas Karvonen were elected Vice Presidents. Risto Rajala, Maija Maunu, Emilia Peikola, Iida Yliannala, Juho Mölsä, Kati Systä, and Emilia Knaapi were elected members of the Executive Board.