Govt launches anti-racism campaign amid controversy

The government launched a national campaign against racism on Tuesday to calm controversy in the wake of a political racism scandal dating back to last fall, reported Xinhua.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said that the aim of launching the "Action, not only words" campaign" is for Finland to offer equal opportunity to everyone," emphasizing that building a safe and equitable Finland requires more than just political decision-makers, and the entire society needs to be involved.

Companies, unions and cities are invited to participate in the campaign by making pledges.

According to the government, initial supporters include Helsinki Region Transport (Helsingin seudun liikenne – HSL) and the Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK).

HSL's Responsibility Program highlights that "Public transport is for everyone." HSL's Interim Executive Director Vesa Silfver said "we want to provide a safe and harassment-free environment for both passengers and our staff."

HSL has pledged to work towards eliminating racism and harassment from public transport, with its campaign set to launch next year.

The government's campaign, announced on Tuesday, is seen as the latest response to the equality and anti-racism pledge made by Orpo's cabinet last fall.

The pledge followed revelations of past anti-immigration statements by radical rightist Perussuomalaiset (Finns Party) politicians and the resignation of a minister of the party.

In early September last year, thousands gathered in Helsinki to protest against racism and the government's proposed measures to address the issue.

However, the credibility of the new campaign has been questioned by opposition members and some trade unions, as well as concerns about whether the Perussuomalaiset will ultimately participate.

In a surprising twist, Perussuomalaiset Chair and Minister of Finance Riikka Purra indicated during a party meeting on Tuesday that her party is unlikely to join the campaign.

However, party secretary Harri Vuorenpaa told a press conference that the party will soon make a decision on participating in the campaign.

A major union of public sector workers has also cancelled its participation, saying the campaign is a cover-up for the cabinet's anti-equality measures.

The Trade Union for the Public and Welfare Sectors cited a government legislation that reduces the residential rights of temporary work permit holders and the planned increase in the residence requirement for naturalization from five to eight years.