The Energy Transition Shaping the World Order: Russia and Finland’s Geopolitical Positioning

Abstract

The aim of this article is to examine Finland’s geopolitical positioning in the context of the energy transition and Russia’s view of the world order, which will be shaped by the energy transition from fossil fuels to cleaner and renewable energy. Russia continues to promote the concept of multipolarity as a means of misleading the international community from its ambitions in regions it perceives to be within its sphere of interest. To ensure the protection of the sovereignty of smaller states, it is essential to understand the motivation behind the Russian perception of the global order. Finland is proactively engaged in the development of renewable energy production and has identified opportunities in the domain of hydrogen and emerging technologies. The strategic importance of this issue is evident, and a definitive policy could result in Finland becoming an energy exporter. This development should also be considered as an act for Finland to gain geopolitical power. The enhanced connectivity of Finland within the European renewable energy market fosters a greater degree of autonomy from Russia. As a neighbouring state to Russia, Finland’s energy system, based on renewables, must be resistant to war. This approach is applicable throughout Europe.