Finland’s influence
The impact of Finland in the international community is difficult to quantify. In the European Union, the decision-making process is dependent primarily on the size of a Member State’s population. When the Council of the European Union reaches a decision with a qualified majority, a minimum of 260 votes out of 352 is required. Finland has seven votes in the Council. Of the 766 Members of the European Parliament, 13 are elected from Finland, as determined by its population.
However, all real influence is not based on just figures. For example, Finland's say within the European Union is partly due to its relatively stable economy even though Standard & Poor's has downgraded its rating for Finnish government bonds from the previous AAA. Even so, the prospects for Finland's long-term debt remain steady.
The question remains as to what degree are these auditors, evaluators and credit rating agencies, who operate outside democratic control and international agreements, able to influence national policies.