Finnish PM Tells Women Thinking of Entering Politics to 'Just Do It'

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Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin encouraged young women looking to enter politics to “just do it” when asked for her advice during a press conference at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on Tuesday, September 13.

“You are capable, you are strong, you can change the world. Just do it,” Marin said.

Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament, also shared her thoughts on the topic.

“It can be difficult to be a woman in politics, but I think I speak on behalf of everybody in this parliament to say not only do we stand with Sanna but with everybody who is in politics for the right reasons,” Metsola said. “[Those] should not be in a position to be judged for any activities taking place outside the political realm,” Metsola added.

Marin faced backlash in August after footage of her dancing and singing with a number of other people, including a Finnish MP, was leaked to the public. Credit: European Parliament via Storyful

Video Transcript

SPEAKER THROUGH INTERPRETER: Directing my question to the prime minister. We've just heard about the place of women in politics. You have suffered attacks yourself. Women are often targets. What would you say to a young woman who wanted to get into politics? I work on a project which is for teenagers, young women. What would you say to a young woman who's afraid of attacks?

ROBERTA METSOLA: I would like to come in on this. And I would also like to tell you this was mentioned during the debate. In the room, the feeling was felt that it can be difficult to be a woman in politics.

But I think I speak on behalf of everybody in this parliament to say that not only do we stand with Sanna, but with everybody who is in politics for the right reasons, and is not-- or should not be in a position to be judged for any activities that are taking place outside the political realm. I think that was important as a message for us to send. I can tell you that was a message that was sent universally by the parliament today to Sanna.

SANNA MARIN: What would I say? I would say you are capable. You are strong. You can change the world. Just do it.