Arms control is a general term referring to efforts to restrain or control the quantity or characteristics of weapons or military assets or the use of weapon systems that are based on bilateral or multilateral agreements or arrangements.
The field of arms control is extensive, involving measures to
- achieve disarmament, that is, to reduce the number of arms or to eliminate entire categories of arms,
- restrict the deployment of forces, equipment and military actions,
- control transfers of arms, military infrastructure and technology,
- increase openness and transparency in military activities through exchange of information and follow-up,
- restrict or eliminate methods and means of warfare (law of armed conflict).
The international arms control regimes are in a weakened state, plagued by uncertainty resulting from the times of tension between the West and Russia, on one hand, and between the West and China, on the other hand. Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has hindered arms control efforts and eroded the international regimes. The operating environment for international arms control is undermined by Russian leaders’ irresponsible nuclear rhetoric, North Korea’s and Iran’s destabilising actions, the heightened risk of nuclear proliferation, the potential expansion of nuclear arms race to space and by the demonstrated use of chemical weapons in recent years. Moreover, the operating environment is strongly influenced by the evolving means and methods of warfare, such as technological advances, the emergence of new weapon systems and the development of military capabilities and military strategies.
The weakened state of arms control also raises the risk of CBRNE threats. CBRNE threats mean threats and risks caused by chemical agents (C), biological pathogens (B), radioactive materials (R), nuclear weapons (N) and explosives (E). CBRNE incidents can be caused by accidents, intentional use or natural events, such as natural communicable diseases. Both under normal conditions and under emergencies, there is a possibility that CBRNE substances are used deliberately in Finland by state actors or by non-state actors, such as individuals, groups or terrorist organisations. Cross-administrative preparedness for CBRNE threats is at a high level in Finland. Finland pursues international cooperation on a wide range of arms control issues especially within the framework of the EU and NATO.
Diverse arms control measures and processes are important to counter different kinds of threats. Arms control is part of the rules-based international system to maintain global and regional stability. Its importance is highlighted in conflicts and other severe international security situations. Arms control is central to improving predictability and strengthening stability, and it offers opportunities for concrete cooperation. Arms control can improve the transparency of military activities and build trust between various actors.
Ministry of Defence responsibilities in the field of arms control
Participating in, following, and influencing international negotiation processes
The Finnish defence administration takes part in international arms control negotiations together with other authorities when the matters being discussed have direct effect on the defence system, on defence cooperation or on the capabilities of the Finnish Defence Forces. For example, international negotiations and processes on CBRNE threats and weapons of mass destruction and their non-proliferation are important for the defence administration and support the efforts to develop Finland’s CBRNE defence. Furthermore, many arms control initiatives and agreements on conventional weapons can affect Finland’s defence system and its development, which is why it is essential to follow and influence such processes. Recently technological advancement has highlighted the importance of arms control initiatives aiming to regulate the military use of artificial intelligence.
Arms control supports and complements NATO’s deterrence and defence. While NATO is not a party to any arms control treaty, it is committed to supporting Allies in their arms control policies. For example, it facilitates dialogue among Allies and supports the implementation of Allies’ international obligations. The Finnish defence administration is active in the internal discussions and coordination of NATO’s arms control policy and measures.
Guiding, directing and coordinating arms control matters in the defence administration
The Ministry of Defence guides and directs the arms control activities of its branch of government to implement Finland’s obligations under international arms control agreements. For example, the defence administration provides reports to fulfil several annual information exchange obligations, controls the export of defence materiel and implements various obligations into the training and practices of the Finnish Defence Forces. The Ministry also gives policy guidance to the development of capabilities in matters related to the field of arms control.
Cooperating with other authorities
The defence administration cooperates actively with other Finnish authorities in training and exercises. In addition, the Finnish Defence Forces supports other authorities when necessary, by providing expert support and executive assistance in matters related to arms control agreements and countering CBRN threats.
Ministry of Defence responsibilities in the field of export control
The Ministry of Defence is responsible for controlling the export of defence materiel. It is the permit authority in matters of concerning the export of defence materiel.
