Participation in international crisis management is part of Finland’s foreign, security and defence policy. Finland participates in international crisis management activities led by the UN, the EU, NATO, the OSCE and international coalitions.

The Ministry of Defence is responsible for the political preparation, steering and supervision of participation in military crisis management and for acquiring resources. The Defence Forces are responsible for the practical preparations and implementation of military crisis management.

Participation in crisis management operations is financed from the appropriations of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defence.

The decision to participate in a new crisis management operation is made by the President on a proposal from the Government. If the operation is particularly demanding or is not based on a mandate from the UN Security Council, the Government must submit a report to Parliament.

Military crisis management mainly uses the same resources that have been reserved for national defence. The valuable experience gained through crisis management activities is also helpful for the development of national defence.