Finland and Ukraine have formalised a strategic partnership to strengthen electoral processes and democratic resilience through a new memorandum of understanding, published by the Finnish Ministry of Justice on February 6.

The agreement comes as both nations face evolving hybrid threats and attempts at external interference in democratic institutions from next-door Russia.

The memorandum, which officially entered into force on February 2, creates a structured framework for the two countries to share technical expertise over an initial three-year period.

Antti Leinonen, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Justice, stated that the cooperation aims to bolster the capabilities of electoral administrations and foster broader public trust in democratic processes amid increasingly complex threats.

The partnership focuses on the practical exchange of knowledge, including study visits, joint seminars, and reciprocal invitations to observe the technical organisation of elections in each country.

Key pillars of the cooperation include strengthening cybersecurity and election security protocols, countering foreign information influence, and developing legislation on national referendums. The agreement also covers the training of election officials and the improvement of voting arrangements for citizens living abroad.

While the memorandum is not legally binding, it establishes an automatic renewal mechanism every three years to ensure long-term stability in bilateral electoral assistance.

The initiative aligns with Helsinki's broader efforts to support Ukraine's institutional alignment with European standards.

Leinonen noted that it is vital to share experiences and jointly develop operating methods at a time when election threats are changing and becoming more complex, Valtioneuvosto reported on February 6.