The key facts

  • Parents in Finland launched a campaign against the 'normalization of racist language and symbols'
  • Suspected hate crimes have been at record levels for the third year in a row
  • 95% of people aged 15–24 have encountered racism online — Red Cross survey

Parents Unite Against Racist Rhetoric

In Finland, parents have launched a campaign against what they call the 'normalization of racist language and symbols' in society. The initiative began after three parents shared their concerns about changing attitudes toward immigrants and minorities on LinkedIn; since then, dozens of participants have joined the movement.

Personal Stories and a Rise in Incidents

One of the parents said there is now a 'greater latitude' for racist insults, and that such language is increasingly encountered in online spaces used by young people. Another recounted that her eight-year-old child was attacked by two teenagers while riding a bike home from school. 'This should not reach children,' she said, adding that 'racism in general is becoming increasingly acceptable in society.'

Warnings from Researchers and Authorities

Researchers warn that far-right rhetoric can reach young people through jokes, memes, and irony. 'Such expressions can make discriminatory ideas commonplace, acceptable, or even entertaining,' noted a researcher in social psychology at the University of Helsinki. Finland's security authority has warned that social media is being used to influence young people and recruit them.

Statistics and the Ministry's Response

The concerns come against the backdrop of a study by Finland's Police University College showing that the number of suspected hate crimes reported to police has reached a record level for the third year in a row. A survey by the Finnish Red Cross found that 95% of people aged 15 to 24 have encountered racism on the internet or social media — personally or as witnesses. The Ministry of the Interior said police are actively monitoring the situation and emphasized the need for cooperation with schools and parents to counter extremist activity.