What Finland can teach Australia about national security

What Finland can teach Australia about national security

Author: ANU National Security College September 25, 2025 Duration: 28:10

How does Finland view strategic linkages between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions? 

What is the Finnish model of ‘Comprehensive Security’, and how does it work in practice? 

How does Finland communicate openly with the public about national security risks without fuelling alarm or polarisation? 

What lessons can Australia learn from Finland's societal-led approach to preparedness? 


In this episode, Pasi Rajala joins Rory Medcalf to discuss the evolving geopolitical landscape, the importance of international cooperation among democracies, and Finland's unique approach to security and resilience. 


Pasi Rajala is the State Secretary to Finland's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Defence.  

Professor Rory Medcalf AM FAIIA is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

  

TRANSCRIPT  

 

Show notes 

 

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Produced by the ANU National Security College, The National Security Podcast offers a deep and nuanced examination of the forces shaping regional and global stability. This isn't just a surface-level news recap; it's a forum for serious, informed discussion grounded in academic rigor and policy expertise. Each episode features conversations with leading thinkers, practitioners, and analysts who unpack the complex security landscape, from geopolitical shifts and economic coercion to cyber threats and climate-related risks. The focus is consistently on the pressing challenges and strategic choices confronting Australia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Listeners will gain access to a range of perspectives that cut through the noise, providing clarity on how today's decisions shape tomorrow's security environment. By engaging with this podcast, you join a conversation that is both timely and essential, one that connects theoretical understanding with the practical realities of government and international affairs. The dialogue here is built on evidence and experience, offering listeners a trusted source to better comprehend the intricate dynamics of power, diplomacy, and defense. It's an ongoing exploration of what security means in a rapidly changing world, delivered through thoughtful, long-form discussions that prioritize depth and insight.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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