Deep beneath the bustling streets of Helsinki, a vast network of underground bunkers stands ready to shelter the city’s population in the event of an attack. These fortified sanctuaries, meticulously carved into the bedrock, represent Finland’s resolute commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens amid rising tensions with its eastern neighbour, Russia. As the geopolitical landscape shifts, the city’s preparedness takes on a new urgency.
A Fortress Beneath the Surface
At the heart of this subterranean network lies the Merihaka shelter, a robust facility designed to withstand the most severe of assaults. A thick granite wall separates the two heavy metal doors at its entrance, creating a formidable barrier against threats. Once inside, residents would first pass through a sealed decontamination chamber, equipped with taps and showers to cleanse clothing of any harmful substances before they descend into the main bunker, situated 25 metres below ground.
“This is just one of many shelters,” explains Nina Järvenkylä from the Helsinki Rescue Department, gesturing towards the neatly arranged bunk beds and rows of dry toilets. “If there’s a war, we know what to do.” The Merihaka shelter is capable of housing 2,000 individuals, although space would be tight with three-tiered bunks lining the walls. The design accommodates various needs, with curtains to create private areas for families and sections for medical aid.
Historical Context Fuels Preparedness
Given Finland’s turbulent history with Russia, including the loss of Karelia after World War II, such preparedness is not merely a precaution; it is deeply ingrained in the national psyche. “We have had 80 years to prepare,” Järvenkylä notes, highlighting the evolution of Helsinki’s shelter system since the 1940s. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent invasion of Ukraine in 2022 rekindled fears of traditional warfare, prompting the Finnish government to adopt a comprehensive security strategy that prioritises the safety of all citizens.
In a dual-use approach, many of Helsinki’s shelters serve additional functions, with certain halls hosting sports facilities and cafes. These spaces can be swiftly repurposed for emergency use, with a clear protocol in place. A city-wide siren, tested monthly, signals residents to gather essential supplies and head to their nearest shelter, ensuring readiness in the face of impending danger.
Community Readiness and Individual Responsibility
Helsinki boasts enough shelter space to accommodate nearly all its residents, with approximately 950,000 available spots for a population of around 700,000. The extensive civil defence network includes around 5,500 shelters within the city and an impressive 50,500 throughout Finland, capable of housing a total of 4.8 million people—around 85 per cent of the population.
On a typical Thursday evening, Rebecca Harkonen is seen playing with her two sons in one of the shelters’ children’s areas. Laughter echoes through the cavernous space as kids engage in games, momentarily oblivious to the serious purpose of their surroundings. “We all know where our closest shelter is. That’s normal for us,” she comments, embodying the Finnish ethos of preparedness.
The “72 hours” concept is particularly well-known among citizens, advocating for each household to maintain three days’ worth of food, water, and essential supplies. Harkonen confirms she follows these guidelines closely, with her pantry stocked with canned goods and other necessities, ensuring her family is always prepared.
Government Assurance and Public Perception
Lieutenant Colonel Annukka Ylivaara, Assistant Secretary General of the government’s Security Committee, reassures that while the threat from across the border is taken seriously, panic is not part of the Finnish response. “In a conflict situation, Finland would be ready,” she insists. The country’s longstanding conscription system and reserve army underscore a national commitment to defence and resilience.
As emergency services actively engage in public education, handing out leaflets on preparedness at local libraries, the message is clear: Finland is not only aware of the potential threats but is also steadfast in its resolve to protect its citizens.
Why it Matters
The establishment of these underground bunkers in Helsinki serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in Europe. As tensions rise in the region, the Finnish approach to national security reflects a commitment to proactive preparedness, ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten. In an era where the spectre of conflict looms large, Helsinki’s hidden fortresses stand as a testament to the resilience and determination of a nation unwilling to cower in the face of adversity.
