On December 17, 2025, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo issued a public apology for racist remarks made by individual members of parliament on social media. In a statement released by Finland’s embassies in the Chinese mainland, the Republic of Korea and Japan, Orpo expressed regret that such comments ran counter to Finland’s core values of equality and inclusion.
’Our message in Finland and to all our friends abroad is that the government takes racism seriously and is committed to combatting the issue,’ Orpo said, underscoring his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on xenophobia.
The apology comes in the wake of a broader controversy that began when Sarah Dzafce, crowned Miss Finland 2025, was accused of mocking and stereotyping Asians, leading the Miss Finland organization to revoke her title. Shortly thereafter, two members of Finland’s parliament and one member of the European Parliament, all from the far-right Finns Party, posted similar offensive images online.
As part of a four-party coalition led by Orpo’s pro-business National Coalition Party, the Finns Party’s actions prompted swift condemnation from leaders of all governing parties. Parliamentary group heads met to discuss the incident and jointly called the behaviour insulting and inappropriate.
For globally minded readers, this episode highlights the challenge democracies face in balancing free speech with respect for diverse communities. As digital platforms amplify voices worldwide, leaders are under increasing pressure to defend inclusive values and hold public figures accountable.
Moving forward, Orpo’s apology sets a precedent for political responsibility in Finland and beyond. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, activists and travellers, it’s a reminder that standing up against racism requires vigilance, dialogue and leadership at every level.
Reference(s):
Finnish PM apologizes for lawmakers' remarks offensive to Asians
cgtn.com
