EU membership debates in the Finnish Parliament the Finnish Parliament

The mobilisation of emotions, shifting emoti

Abstract

This study utilises William Reddy’s concept of ‘emotional regimes’ to analyse emotional mobilisation in Finland’s 1994 parliamentary debates on EU membership. It argues that the debates reflected a struggle to transition from an emotional regime shaped by historical ties to the Soviet Union (Russia), characterised by secrecy and emotional control, towards a foreign policy emphasising transparency and pluralism. The analysis identifies four themes associated with negative emotions: independence, economy, welfare state, and democracy. The findings indicate that political emotions were closely connected to nation’s historical experiences, influencing perceptions of the EU. Ultimately, the study shows that emotions, when intertwined with historical experiences, can serve as rational guides in navigating uncertain futures, challenging traditional Western views that prioritise rationality over emotions.