The Finnish government has announced it will begin allowing
traffic across Schengen internal borders for those travelling for work or other
essential journeys from 14 May as part of its plan to reopen parts of the country.
The lifting of restrictions only applies to ※employment or
commission-related commuting and other essential traffic§ and does not include
recreational travel. Finland is also continuing to advise citizens against leisure
travel abroad. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will draft more specific
guidelines on the gradual opening of border traffic, though the government
believes lifting restrictions should be coordinated at the EU level.
Prime minister Sanna Marin announced the moves on Monday as
she outlined a phased approach to lifting the country*s lockdown, which went
into effect weeks ago. They include reopening cafes and restaurants and allowing
gatherings of up to 50 people from 1 June.