Is the mere existence of an intelligence committee enough? Learning from the case study of the Finnish parliament

Abstract

Legislatures are increasingly investing resources into oversight of intelligence agencies. However, effective control of intelligence is wrought with challenges: while national security is a highly important policy domain, information is often classified, and MPs may feel that public critique of intelligence agencies is not appropriate. The Intelligence Oversight Committee (IOC) of the Finnish Eduskunta, operational since 2019, provides an interesting case for examining these challenges. The article shows that IOC remains on the fringes of parliamentary business, and more assertive approach is needed to both ensure its survival and to elevate its status in the Eduskunta and in societal debates.