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The environment as part of comprehensive security – Research seminar

Event
As the geopolitical situation evolves, the importance of comprehensive security is becoming increasingly pronounced. At the same time, a range of environmental phenomena, such as extreme natural events, resource scarcity, and infrastructure vulnerabilities, are creating new challenges for societal stability and preparedness.
Kuvituskuva
© Syke

Time and venue

When: Monday, 5 October 2026, 9:00–12:00 (EET)
The event can be followed online. The livestream link will be available on this page closer to the event.

Finnish Environment Institute Research Seminar: Environment as part of comprehensive security

The environmental dimension is closely intertwined with security issues. It affects living conditions, economic resilience, and relations between countries. Understanding environmental issues as part of a broader security framework is essential for building a sustainable and resilient future.

This seminar will explore comprehensive security from different perspectives and open discussion on current topics related to environmental security. The programme will include expert presentations as well as an interactive session focusing on topical questions of comprehensive security. 

The first part of the seminar will be in English, the last part in Finnish.

Program

9.00-9.10 Welcome and introduction, Leif Schulman, Director general, Syke

9.10-9.30 Climate Policy and Positive Security, Paula Kivimaa, Research professor, Syke

9.30-9.55 Climate Change and Security: Emerging Strategic Challenges for Europe, Duncan Depledge, Senior Lecturer in Geopolitics and Security, Loughborough University

9.55-10.10 Comprehensive Security from an Environmental Perspective: Key Messages from a Syke Policy Brief, Suvi Sojamo, Principal researcher, Syke

10.10-10.20 Discussion and Q&A

10.20-10.30 Break

10.30-11.20 Ympäristö osana kokonaisturvallisuutta: tutkimustietoa, käytännön ratkaisuja ja varautumista

  • Lauri Ahopelto, johtava asiantuntija ja Tulvakeskuksen päällikkö, Syke
  • Joonas Kahiluoto, tutkija, Syke / Jenni Attila, ryhmäpäällikkö, Syke
  • Anisa Doty, asiantuntija, Finnish Water Diplomacy Platform / erikoistutkija, Syke

11.20-11.45 Paneelikeskustelu: Ympäristöturvallisuus Suomessa – miten tutkimuksen viesteihin vastataan?

  • Jussi Alho, johtava asiantuntija, OKM
  • Jonas Liimatta, osastopäällikkö, MMM
  • Kerstin Stendahl, kansainvälisten asiain neuvos, YM
  • Annukka Ylivaara, yleissihteeri, Turvallisuuskomitean sihteeristö

11.45-11.55 Kommenttipuheenvuoro, Emma Hakala, johtava tutkija, Ulkopoliittinen instituutti

11.55-12.00 Loppusanat, Leif Schulman, Pääjohtaja, Syke

The seminar is intended especially for policymakers, Members of Parliament, and professionals working in the fields of security and the environment.

Welcome to listen, learn, and participate via livestream on Monday, 5 October 2026, from 9:00 to 12:00.

Further information

Janette Parviainen

Coordinator