Border studies expert raises concerns over use of reservists for border security following Conscription Act amendments

Professor Jussi P. Laine, an expert in border studies, has expressed concern about the potential use of reservists at the border. This follows recent amendments to the Conscription Act, which now permits the Border Guard to call up reservists for refresher training at short notice in order to maintain border security. Such training can be organized at the border when reservists are needed to prevent disruptions to border security or when enhanced surveillance is required.

According to Professor Laine, the situation could pose challenges even for the permanent staff of the Border Guard, let alone the reservists. He suggests that these individuals would need comprehensive training to be prepared for such tasks. “How are these reservists prepared and trained for these tasks?” asks Professor Laine.

He states that the hypothetical training scenario is quite challenging, even for the regular staff of the Border Guard. “This is not a lack of confidence in the Border Guard, but these are really difficult situations where the use of reservists is quite problematic,” Laine asserts.

The Border Guard has clarified that this procedure would be highly exceptional and would only apply to reservists within the Border Guard. Refresher exercises would only be organized when absolutely necessary to control the situation at the border.