Vihreiden

Vihreiden, commonly referred to as the Green League in English, is a green political party in Finland. In Finnish, the party is officially named Vihreä liitto and is often referred to in parliament as Vihreät. It is a member of the Global Greens and the European Green Party.

History describes the party’s origins: the Greens grew out of Finland’s environmental and anti-nuclear movements in the late 1980s and were formed around 1987–1988. They gradually gained representation in the Finnish Parliament, entering government coalitions at different times, and have established themselves as a persistent voice for environmental and social issues in Finnish politics.

Ideology and policy: the party adheres to green politics, combining environmental protection and sustainable development with social liberalism and human rights. It prioritizes climate action, renewable energy, biodiversity, and sustainable economies, while also emphasizing social equality, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and a strong welfare state. The Greens generally support deeper European integration and multilateral cooperation.

Organization: the Green League operates through a national organization, local associations, and a parliamentary group, with a youth wing and active cooperation with greens at the European level through the European Green Party. Local municipalities and regional councils also host Green representation, contributing to policy development at multiple levels.

Electoral profile: the party has had representation in the Eduskunta (Finnish Parliament) and in the European Parliament at various times, with vote shares that fluctuate by election. It has held ministerial posts in several governments, influencing climate and environmental policy, as well as sustainability and social issues.

Notable figures: the Greens have produced prominent politicians who have served in parliament or government, and who have represented Finland in international forums.