Authors

• Grönlund, Kimmo (Åbo Akademi University)
• Finnish Research Infrastructure for Public Opinion (FIRIPO)

Keywords

COVID-19, NATO, armed forces, defence and state security policy, institutions, international conflict, military operations, policy, war

Abstract

The data was used to map the opinions of Finnish individuals regarding measures taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19, NATO membership, the Defence Forces, and other themes related to security policy and military conflicts in May 2022. The data was collected as part of the Public Opinion Panel, which is part of The Finnish Research Infrastructure for Public Opinion (FIRIPO).

The questionnaire first asked respondents about their opinions on the targeting and fairness of COVID-19 measures. For example, respondents were asked whether the measures had prioritized economic considerations at the expense of public health, or vice versa. They were also asked whether the measures had been proportionate both at the time of data collection in May 2022 and since the beginning of the pandemic. The questionnaire also explored respondents' views on how various actors, such as the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) or different ministers, had handled the COVID-19 situation.

Next, the questionnaire examined respondents' opinions on NATO membership, the Defence Forces, and Russia's impact on Finland's security. Respondents were also asked whether Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 or the general developments in Russia caused them concern. Finally, respondents were asked to assess how the military situation in Finland's neighboring regions might develop over the next ten years.

Background variables in the dataset include the respondent's gender, native language, region, age, age group, and level of education.