Sanna Marin, who made history as Finland’s youngest prime minister when she took office in 2019 at just 34, reflects on her leadership journey in her new memoir, “Hope in Action.” During her tenure, Marin navigated significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and Finland’s entry into NATO amid escalating tensions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In a conversation with Carolyn Beeler, Marin recalled the uncertainty she faced when stepping into the role of prime minister under a governmental crisis. Despite her apprehensions and responsibilities as a mother to a toddler, she found encouragement among her family and peers, which ultimately led her to accept the position. Marin emphasized that feeling unprepared often offers valuable opportunities for growth and learning.
Her leadership style and the effectiveness of her government during the pandemic were characterized by the trust inherent in Finnish society. Marin noted that this trust allowed citizens to cooperate with restrictive measures, helping Finland maintain some of the lowest COVID-19 rates in Europe. The Nordic welfare model played a key role in fostering this degree of trust, enabling citizens to rely on governmental and medical authorities during the crisis.
Marin’s term also coincided with Finland’s pivotal decision to seek NATO membership, reflecting a significant shift in the nation’s defense policy due to the threat posed by Russia. She articulated the importance of NATO’s collective security framework for Finland, acknowledging the country’s difficult historical relationship with its eastern neighbor. Today, she believes Finland is safer as a NATO member than it would have been without that alliance.
Post-tenure, Marin remains engaged in international efforts to support Ukraine, underscoring the profound interconnection between Europe and Ukraine’s future. She criticized the international community’s past missteps regarding Russia’s aggression and advocates for a strong and decisive response to authoritarianism.
In her memoir, Marin addresses personal controversies, including scrutiny over her private life, notably a dancing video that sparked public debate about her appropriateness as a leader. She reaffirms the importance of authenticity, stating that women should be able to express themselves fully, whether in their personal or professional lives. While the media’s focus on her private life felt intrusive, she insists that she would not change her behavior if given another chance.
Despite the challenges and scrutiny she faced, Marin expressed gratitude for her time in office, particularly highlighting her dedication to human rights, gender equality, and addressing climate change. As she looks ahead, Marin acknowledges that her future is a mystery, and while she is open to a return to politics, she is focused on making a positive impact in various ways.
Sanna Marin’s story exemplifies resilience and determination, reflecting her commitment to progressive values and the pursuit of meaningful societal change. Her experiences resonate as a testament to the potential for leadership to evolve and adapt through personal and collective trials.