Stubb Calls for Cooperation Over Conflict as Finland Bids for UN Security Council Seat

Finnish President Alexander Stubb has called on world leaders to strengthen international cooperation and uphold the rules-based international order, as Finland formally campaigns for a seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2029–2030 term.

Speaking at the General Debate of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, Stubb framed the current global situation as a choice between “co-operation or conflict.”

He said international cooperation is being weakened by a lack of trust, disregard for international rules and weakening institutions. According to Stubb, conflicts are spreading and causing suffering, violence and injustice.

“According to some accounts, there are currently 65 active armed conflicts – more than at any time since the end of the Cold War,” Stubb said in his address.

The Finnish president argued that competition between countries is inevitable, but warned that the growing tendency to compete outside established international rules poses a greater risk.

He called for stronger multilateralism and said the United Nations should remain at the centre of international rule-making, institution-building and peace mediation.

Finland seeks UN Security Council seat

Finland is campaigning for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2029–2030 term. The Finnish government has been promoting the candidacy during the UN General Assembly high-level week in New York.

In his speech, Stubb said Finland’s candidacy is based on its commitment to the UN Charter and its principles, with a focus on “peace, people, and partnerships.”

He also called for reform of the Security Council, including greater representation for Africa, Asia-Pacific and Latin America. He proposed that no single country should have veto power and that Security Council voting rights could be suspended when a member violates the UN Charter.

Three priorities for a world in disorder

Stubb outlined three areas he believes should receive greater attention: the rule of law, humanitarian principles and the language used in international relations.

He said countries should continue defending principles including national sovereignty, territorial integrity, freedom of navigation and accountability for serious international crimes.

He also highlighted humanitarian crises in Sudan, Gaza and Haiti, saying the international community should not become indifferent to war and civilian suffering.

Stubb further warned that provocative rhetoric can damage trust between countries and called for a more dignified approach to international diplomacy.

He ended his speech with a call for a new international effort to restore balance and cooperation, describing it as a possible “new San Francisco moment” for the international order.

The 81st UN General Assembly high-level week is being held in New York from 22 to 28 September, with Finland’s delegation led by President Stubb.