Finland will see first foreign-born presidential spouse

For the first time, the spouse of Finland’s next president will be of foreign origin.

The spouses of both the National Coalition Party candidate Alexander Stubb, and his rival Pekka Haavisto (Green/independent) were born abroad.

Stubb’s wife Suzanne Innes-Stubb is English and was born in Solihull. Haavisto’s partner Antonio Flores is Ecuadorian, born in Esmeraldas.

Spouses could make a difference

It has been suggested that the candidates’ spouses could also play a crucial role in the second round of voting.

The spouse of the president has no formal role in law, but they have many representative functions. The spouses of both front runners have said they are considering what role they would play in their future place alongside the head of state, and as the country’s first spouse.

“Some might question whether a homosexual can be the [president’s] spouse, whether a presidential couple could be a gay couple instead of a straight couple. This was not a focus in the campaign, but it is something that many voters may also wonder about,” noted Paula Pokkinen, head of Yle’s political and social affairs section during Sunday evening’s election coverage.

On the other hand, Pokkinen believes that it may be considered an advantage for Haavisto that he has the courage to be himself. This may also benefit Finland’s image in some contexts.

However, the election campaign is expected to remain low-key and respectful of all parties in the second round.

Family issues on the agenda

Before the elections, Suzanne Innes-Stubb stated that she hopes that as the president’s wife she would be able to show how much Finland means to her.

In particular, she would like to promote the welfare of families, work to prevent social exclusion, and bring people together through music and sport.

“I would also like to contribute to the fight against domestic violence,” said Innes-Stubb.

Antonio Flores, for his part, said before the election that as the partner of the president, he would like to promote the cause of children and young people.

“There are many children and young people in need of help in Finland. It is important that children get an education, have a home and are loved,” Flores said.