Finland's Ministry of the Interior is planning significant organizational changes that would move the Security Intelligence Service (Supo) under police department supervision. The proposed restructuring would eliminate the National Security Unit that has overseen Supo in recent years.
Matti Sarasmaa, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of the Interior, confirmed that planning for the reorganization is in its final stages. The transition to the new model is scheduled to occur around the turn of the year. The matter was discussed today in a leadership group meeting.
According to Sarasmaa, the current proposal involves disbanding the National Security Unit and redistributing its responsibilities within the ministry. Another realistic option would place Supo directly under the Permanent Secretary's authority. A third alternative would maintain and strengthen the existing National Security Unit to improve performance.
Sarasmaa considers the unit's dissolution most likely. He emphasizes that Interior Minister Mari Rantanen will make the final decision in early December. The potential transfer of Supo's oversight to the police department has generated discussion within Parliament and among government coalition parties, with calls for additional information.
The organizational changes raise important questions about maintaining intelligence independence and ensuring proper oversight of civilian intelligence activities. These concerns require clearer resolution before any restructuring occurs. The proposed changes also connect to ongoing police law amendments currently under parliamentary consideration.
Sarasmaa acknowledges that moving Supo under police department supervision has sparked debate. When asked about political feedback opposing such changes, he noted some discussion exists but hasn't reached him directly. He characterized the reorganization as a minor organizational adjustment where tasks would be redistributed rather than eliminated or expanded.
The National Security Unit handles critical functions including national security, civilian intelligence, preparedness, organizational security, risk management, and cybersecurity. It also coordinates the ministry's hybrid affairs and supervises, coordinates, and develops these areas in cooperation with other actors. The unit has operated directly under the Permanent Secretary's authority and has been led by National Security Unit Director Petri Knape.
This restructuring comes amid updates to civilian and military intelligence laws and additional 10 million euro funding allocated this year to improve Supo's operational capabilities. The ministry must ensure Supo maintains its ability to perform essential security work effectively.
Organizational changes within security agencies always generate concern, and this proposal appears no different. The ministry faces the challenge of restructuring while maintaining operational continuity and public confidence in Finland's security institutions. The final decision in December will determine the future structure of Finland's national security oversight.