Calls Grow for Higher Conscript Daily Allowance

The vice chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee argues it is unsustainable that those completing military service earn less than a convicted prisoner. The article notes that conscripts receive 6.15 euros per day for the first 165 days, while an inmate serving a sentence in an open prison can access more funds for daily needs and incidentals. Since February, the daily rates have been increased by five cents across all brackets, with the schedule now listing 6.15 euros for days 1–165, 10.20 euros for days 166–255, and 14.25 euros for days 256–347. The paper adds that Finland is investing billions in defense to meet the threat posed by Russia, and Vikman emphasizes that a strong reserve is the backbone of Finnish national defense. She says the job of a conscript carries responsibilities for the country and should be reflected in fair and timely compensation. The article quotes Mats Uotila, the Varusmiesliitto chair and a Tampere city councillor, who calls the current pay levels ironic and insufficient, noting that even a prisoner can earn more. The union supports doubling the current daily allowances.