Embassy of Finland in The Hague - Suomen suurlähetystö Haagissa

15/09/2026

On this International Day of Democracy, Finland emphasizes the interlinkages between democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Democracy is an essential component of comprehensive security, and it is enhanced by media literacy and other civic skills.

This year also marks the 120th anniversary of Finland becoming the first country in the world to grant women the universal right to vote and stand for election. Women’s meaningful participation and leadership are essential prerequisites for strong democratic societies, sustainable peace and prosperity.

Supporting democracy is a part of Finland’s foreign and development policy. Our support to Ukraine, through the Council of Europe, International IDEA and the Rule of Law Centre of Finland, helps Ukraine meet European Union standards in the field of the rule of law.

Finnish experiences in multiparty democracy are shared with partner countries through Demo Finland, a unique cooperation organization of all Finnish parliamentary parties.

Free and active civil society fosters democracy and contributes to societal openness, accountability and trust. Finland currently channels a record high share of its Official Development Assistance through Finnish Civil Society Organizations.

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Elina Valtonen:
"Democracy. The rule of law. Human rights. Equality. The freedom of each and every individual to pursue a life they choose for themselves. Come what may, these are the values we uphold."

10/09/2026

🇫🇮🇳🇱 Strengthening defence cooperation through innovation and shared resilience.

Earlier this week, Finnish Chief of Defence General Janne Jaakkola visited the Netherlands to further deepen the strong partnership between our two countries. Accompanied by our Ambassador-designate Mikael Antell, the visit included discussions on emerging technologies that enhance European security and operational readiness, as well as a visit to the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research.

Topics ranged from the protection of military personnel and critical infrastructure to space applications, undersea warfare, and next-generation defence capabilities.

Many thanks to the Netherlands Armed Forces for their hospitality and valuable exchanges, which continue to strengthen the close defence partnership between Finland and the Netherlands.

09/09/2026

08/09/2026

Last week, our Ambassador-designate Mikael Antell had the pleasure to visit the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) in The Hague, taking part in a discussion on security policy with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

The visit highlighted the NCIA's crucial role in strengthening NATO's digital capabilities and providing the secure communications and information services that enable effective cooperation among Allied and partner nations. 🌍

04/09/2026

This week we had the opportunity to warmly welcome Ambassador-designate Mikael Antell and his wife Sonja to the Hague. 🇫🇮🇳🇱

Ambassador Antell joins us from Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs, where he most recently served as Deputy Director General of the Ministry’s Political Department. He has previously served as Head of Mission at Finland’s Embassy in Oslo and has held diplomatic postings at the Embassies in Stockholm, Copenhagen and Santiago de Chile.

We look forward to Ambassador Antell’s contribution to further strengthening the close and longstanding ties and cooperation between Finland and the Netherlands.

01/09/2026

Did you know that you can work out for free in almost every city in Finland? 💪 Best of all, you can use most outdoor exercise facilities year-round – as long as you’re dressed for the occasion 😌

28/08/2026

🌍 Heads of Finland’s missions abroad gathered in Helsinki earlier this week for the annual Meeting of Heads of Mission.

The event brought together ambassadors and Finnish leaders to discuss today’s global challenges and Finland’s role in international affairs.

This year’s meeting focused on foreign and security policy, the opportunities and implications of artificial intelligence for international relations, and the vital role of active diplomacy in an increasingly complex world.

24/08/2026

З Днем Незалежності! Finland congratulates Ukraine and the Ukrainian people on your 35th Independence Day!

Our friendship goes back to 1918, and we have stood by your side throughout your years of independence.

We honour the courage and determination Ukrainians show every day in defending their freedom and independence.

Together with our partners, we will continue to support Ukraine, strengthen resilience that benefits us all, and work towards a just and lasting peace.

Finland stands with Ukraine today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes.

🇫🇮🇺🇦

21/08/2026

Ready to start learning Finnish? Finnish Cultural Institute for the Benelux offers a variety of Finnish Language Course for different levels!🇫🇮

Here is the schedule for the Autumn Term which runs September–December 2026:

Level 1 In-person, Wednesdays 18:30–20:00 CET
Level 1 Online, Thursdays 18:00–19:30 CET
Level 2 In-person, Mondays 18:30–20:00 CET
Level 2 Online, Thursdays 18:00–20:00 CET
Level 3 Online, Saturdays 11:30–13:30 CET
Level 4 In-person, Tuesdays 18:30–20:00 CET
Level 4 Online, Saturdays 9:00–11:00 CET
Level 5 Online, Thursdays 19:45–21:15 CET

Head to finncult.be to learn more & register.
Registration closes on 28.8.2026.

19/08/2026

Today marks the World Humanitarian Day 🌍🤝📦

Humanitarian needs are rising, while delivering aid is becoming more dangerous. Humanitarian workers provide life-saving assistance to people affected by conflicts, disasters and other crises around the world.

On this day, we recognize their work, stand in solidarity with people affected by crises, and reaffirm the importance of protecting civilians and humanitarian workers everywhere.