Highlights from CMI’s Peace Debate
With the Peace Debate, CMI aimed to bring peace to the center of the Finnish presidential election.
The Peace Debate, organized on 13 November, 2023 in collaboration with Ilta-Sanomat and Politico, was a continuation of the parliamentary election debate held in February. The event had both Finnish and English parts and could be followed live on the Ilta-Sanomat and Politico websites.
With a record number of ongoing conflicts worldwide, CMI invited Finnish presidential candidates to address topics such as Ukraine, the Middle East, EU enlargement as well as the roles of Finland and the EU in promoting peace.
Photo: Maria Santto / CMI
The Finnish debate was moderated by Hanna Vesala, Ilta-Sanomat’s social affairs editor, and the English part by Sarah Wheaton, Politico Europe’s Chief Policy Correspondent.
Discussed topics included the prospect of peace negotiations in Ukraine. “Zelenskyi’s peace plan has gained wide support,” said Pekka Haavisto. “This front for peace in Ukraine should be broadened.”
Jussi Halla-aho remarked that in order to be reconstructed, Ukraine will need security guarantees that can be trusted.
Photo: Maria Santto / CMI
On international cooperation, Alexander Stubb said that the erosion of cooperation undermines peace efforts in many conflicts. “It is hard to reach comprehensive agreements. Peace mediation has become limited.”
Photo: Maria Santto / CMI
On future EU enlargement, Olli Rehn argued that enlargement is the most important geopolitical tool, and the journey is as important as the destination.
Israel-Palestine relations were also on the agenda. Li Andersson stressed that de-escalation in the Middle East is important globally, as the conflict involves regional, geopolitical, antisemitist as well as Islamophobic escalation risks.
Mika Aaltola condensed Martti Ahtisaari’s most important legacy into two words: hope and determination. “One must push for peace despite difficulties.”
Photo: Maria Santto / CMI
With a full house, professional moderators and articulate candidates, the concept was clearly a hit, paving the way for potential future events. CMI would like to thank all participants for a constructive debate!