Finns are prepared for nuclear war: the country has built over 50,000 bunkers capable of accommodating almost the entire population of Finland (3 photos)

Unlike Germany, where bunker construction was completely halted for several decades.





Finland remains one of the few countries in the world where the civilian shelter system covers almost the entire population. According to the German publication Bild, more than 50,500 bunkers have been built throughout Finland, capable of accommodating approximately 4.8 million people out of a total population of 5.6 million. In Helsinki alone, there are more shelters than residents: the law requires any building over 1,200 square meters to have a designated shelter.



One such bunker, located 20 meters beneath the capital, can accommodate up to 6,000 people and is even capable of withstanding a nuclear strike. During peacetime, its premises are used as sports and play areas, as well as underground parking.

However, in the event of a threat, the shelters are prepared to quickly switch to civil defense mode.



However, Finland has no state-run emergency stockpile for the population in case of a nuclear war—this burden is placed on the population. Each resident is expected to prepare personal supplies for 72 hours, including food, flashlights, sleeping bags, medicine, and hygiene items. Moreover, not only Finnish citizens but also foreigners residing or staying in the country will be allowed into emergency bunkers.

The Bild article also draws a comparison with Germany, where only 579 bunkers remain for 480,000 people, representing just 0.5% of the population. German authorities are already discussing the possibility of converting underground parking garages, subways, and other facilities to protect the population in emergency situations. Finland continues to develop its network of bunkers, remaining a world leader in preparedness for potential crises. As a reminder, Finland became a NATO member in 2023.