Decoding Finnish President Alexander Stubb’s 2025 New Year’s Speech as an ‘Immigrant’

Alexander Stubb’s first New Year’s speech as President of the Republic of Finland on January 1, 2025, drew plenty of attention—and not just because of what he said. For the first time since 2005, when Tarja Halonen delivered her address live, a Finnish President spoke in real time rather than relying on a pre-recorded message. That same year (2005), as a visiting journalist invited by Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland , I had the honor of interviewing President Halonen—an experience that gave me a unique perspective on Finnish foreign policy and how these annual speeches have evolved.

But Stubb’s decision to go live wasn’t the only thing that stood out; he also offered an English version of his New Year’s speech. To my knowledge, this may be the first time a Finnish President has delivered such a speech in English as well, alongside the traditional Finnish and Swedish. Whether it’s a sign of a more globally oriented presidency, a nod to Finland’s growing international audience, or simply a reflection of Stubb’s personal style, it certainly marked a modern break from tradition.

A Fresh Approach—But Familiar Themes

Stubb opened by greeting “compatriots, citizens, and Finns,” subtly acknowledging everyone—longstanding residents and newcomers alike. That inclusive note matters for those of us who have made Finland our home, yet still sometimes wonder where we fit within the national fabric.

The live format gave the speech extra spark. Unlike a polished, edited recording, it carried the immediacy and potential unpredictability of a real-time broadcast. Yet, despite this new energy, the content touched on themes familiar to anyone following Finnish politics in recent years: concerns about global power shifts, unwavering support for Ukraine, and the need to uphold a rules-based international order amid growing tensions.

Security, Resilience, and Hard Truths

Stubb acknowledged that we live in unstable times. While praising Finland’s strong institutions—its defense forces, the unity of its people—he also emphasized how quickly global events can shake our sense of security. Having once discussed international cooperation with President Halonen, I’ve noticed how Finnish leaders consistently tie “security” to societal fundamentals like education, trust, and community spirit.

Still, if you were hoping for detailed economic relief measures or tangible steps on how everyday Finns—and international talent—can best navigate inflation and job-market challenges, Stubb’s speech may have felt light on specifics. His broad references to “finding compromises” left room for political maneuvering without offering a clear roadmap.

Twice Over: “Cannot Be Outsourced”

A phrase Stubb repeated was that certain responsibilities “cannot be outsourced.” First, he applied this to collective efforts that maintain Finland’s social and democratic fabric, urging people not to leave everything to politicians. Then he used the same phrase in a personal context—love, time with loved ones, and genuine human connection can’t simply be handed off to others.

In a related point, Stubb also urged people to spend less time on their phones, encouraging more face-to-face connections. This resonated with me, as I’ve been trying to break my own habit of constant phone scrolling. Hearing it from the President reinforced my belief that no technology can replace genuine human interaction.

For international talent, language like this can ring especially true. Finland’s robust public services are impressive, but daily life is enriched by small acts of kindness—neighbors helping neighbors, inclusive workplaces, or simply being patient with someone learning Finnish. Institutions matter, but it’s everyday empathy that makes a place feel like home.

The bigger question is whether Stubb’s call against “outsourcing” will translate into real changes in how people juggle work, family, and community. Fine words can inspire, but they don’t magically create more hours in the day or more straightforward paths to integration.

First New Year’s Speech in English—A Signal?

Stubb’s choice to present his New Year’s speech in English, in addition to Finnish and Swedish may suggest a broader shift in how Finland’s leaders communicate with a global audience—both within and beyond the country. It could be a simple acknowledgment that many residents and observers don’t speak Finnish or Swedish, or it might reflect Stubb’s international background and comfort with foreign languages.

Either way, it’s a noteworthy departure from how past New Year’s speeches have been handled. When Tarja Halonen went live, she stuck to Finnish and Swedish. Sauli Niinist? followed with recorded messages, also in Finland’s two official languages. By adding English, Stubb has opened the door wider, hinting that Finland aims to share its values and policies with a broader audience.

Looking Ahead

Like his predecessors, Stubb warned of the dangers of polarization, urging calm, empathy, and patience—no small feat in an era of social media clashes and political echo chambers. Finland may be small, but it isn’t immune to the global surge of populism or deep ideological divides.

In my 2005 interview, President Halonen spoke about the Finnish knack for dialogue and consensus-building. Stubb’s point that Finland “cannot afford” polarization is well taken, but speeches alone won’t mend the fractures. That requires deeper, ongoing engagement from top politicians down to daily interactions online and at local gatherings.

In sum, Stubb’s first New Year’s speech felt both refreshing and familiar. Delivering it live—and in English—brought a modern twist, yet much of the substance reflected Finland’s established concerns: global security, cooperation, and a call to preserve the country’s unifying values.

Reintroducing a live format carries a symbolic weight of its own, suggesting a genuine invitation for real-time engagement between the presidency and the public. Stubb’s choice to go beyond Finland’s two official languages may also signal a more outward-looking future. As we step into the new year, that inclusive vision offers a sense of promise for everyone who calls Finland home.