Finland to Lobby against European Chemicals Agency's Proposal to Restrict Lead Bullets Use

The Finnish government, led by Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen, is lobbying against a proposal by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to restrict the civilian use of lead ammunition across the European Union.

ECHA's proposal seeks to extend the current ban on lead shot in wetlands to include all civilian uses of lead-based ammunition, citing health and environmental risks. Exceptions would apply only to military defense and certain official uses. If adopted, the ban would end civilian access to lead bullets and shot after a transition period.

Häkkänen expressed concern that the ban could weaken European and national security by reducing production capacity for lead ammunition, which is essential for both civilian and military needs, particularly in crisis situations. He also warned about the impact on voluntary defense training and shooting ranges, which would face high costs for implementing environmental protection measures.

“We should be making the European defense industry and our crisis preparedness stronger, not weaker,” Häkkänen said, emphasizing that the regulation could harm the military, the defense industry, and preparedness efforts.

The Finnish Ministry of Defence and government have actively sought to influence the European Commission, proposing a compromise that balances defense needs with environmental and health concerns. Finland is also seeking support from other EU member states to amend the proposal.

The proposed restriction on lead ammunition remains a contentious issue within the EU, with potential implications for national security, crisis preparedness, and environmental protection policies.