How has the security policy discourse changed in Europe, and how can young people participate? Paula Pättikangas, Chair of the Youth, Peace, and Security Network, interviewed MEP Aura Salla and Samuel Tammekann, Senior Expert at European Movement Finland and representative of JEF Europe, in a webinar held on March 25
Defense policy has undeniably become a prominent topic among EU decision-makers. However, MEP Aura Salla noted that no one currently wants to reopen the Lisbon Treaty, even though it limits the EU’s authority in foreign and defense policy. The reason lies in Hungary and Slovakia.
Salla hopes that the EU would promote the Union’s comprehensive security.
Both Salla and her discussion partner Samuel Tammekann agreed that security policy covers more than just defense. Salla emphasized the importance of the EU continuing to provide humanitarian aid and engage in development cooperation.
“Right now, we should share more of our expertise globally, especially regarding women’s and children’s rights. Whether we talk about Ukraine, Gaza, or Afghanistan, we must always consider human rights. Various NGOs provide us with information on what needs to be done and where.”
Aura Salla is a first-term MEP in the EPP group and a former National Coalition Party MP. Samuel Tammekann works as a Senior Expert at European Movement Finland and is involved in the Young European Federalists (JEF) organization in his free time.
The integration of peace work, humanitarian aid, and development cooperation is referred to as the “triple nexus,” where all three are implemented seamlessly and often simultaneously. This approach is reflected in Finland’s first Youth, Peace, and Security action plan.
Regulation of Digital Platforms Divided Opinions
Security policy discussions are increasingly taking place on digital platforms, which are not entirely secure. Both Salla and Tammekann recognized the importance of the EU’s digital autonomy, but their views differed on the means to achieve it.
Tammekann advocated for strong regulation of digital platforms to ensure that data collected from European users does not end up in the wrong hands.
“It’s quite frightening what a totalitarian state could do with all our data. We must ensure our data isn’t for sale,” said Tammekann.
Salla, on the other hand, viewed overregulation of digital platforms as a greater threat.
“Currently, we have nothing to compete with totalitarian states. We only use American platforms because the USA doesn’t regulate its companies like Europe does, giving them a significant competitive advantage,” Salla emphasized.
Salla also reminded that while far-right disinformation campaigns are supported from outside Europe, they originate within Europe.
Digital environments are also central in Finland’s first national Youth, Peace, and Security action plan.
Should Youth Be Emphasized in Security Discussions?
The discussion also touched on the role of youth as peacebuilders. MEP Salla believes that young people should boldly participate in security policy discussions without overly emphasizing their distinction from other demographic groups.
“I don’t consider young people a marginal group. They are active participants in society and shouldn’t be segregated. Doing so only creates the impression that youth are on the sidelines,” Salla said.
Tammekann, in turn, reflected on the connection between societal discourse, politics, and the mental health crisis, which particularly affects young people.
“Many young people find it hard to see that politics has anything to offer them. I’d be worried about having a child in 2035, as I fear for young people’s future.”
A survey conducted at the end of last year found that 60% of young respondents believe the security situation will be worse in five years.
Peace Is Linked to Reconstruction
Pättikangas sought the panelists’ thoughts on whether the concept of peace needs to be emphasized alongside security. Tammekann responded that security discussions have become militarized since Russia’s large-scale invasion, and peace is sometimes conflated with surrender.
“However, we must also discuss the post-war period. War leads to radicalization, so we must not forget about peace,” Tammekann emphasized.
This is also recognized in the UN Security Council’s Youth, Peace, and Security resolution, which addresses issues such as disarmament and reintegration into society.
The webinar was organized by Nuorisoala ry in collaboration with Austria’s national youth committee BJV. The event was funded by the European Union.