Source link : https://europ.info/2025/11/12/record-surge-in-hate-crimes-shakes-finland-to-its-core-last-year/
Finland witnessed a troubling surge in hate crimes last year, as authorities reported a record number of incidents across the country. According to data released by law enforcement agencies and highlighted by Anadolu Ajansı, these offenses spanned various forms of discrimination and targeted multiple minority groups. The escalating figures have raised concerns among officials and civil society about the growing prevalence of hate-driven violence and the urgent need for effective preventive measures.
Record Rise in Hate Crimes Alarms Finnish Authorities
Finnish law enforcement agencies have flagged an unprecedented surge in hate crimes, marking last year as the most alarming period on record. Statistics reveal a 20% increase compared to the previous year, sparking concern among policymakers and civil rights organizations alike. Authorities point to growing social polarization and online radicalization as potential drivers behind this troubling trend. The crimes reported span a broad range of motivations, including ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and political beliefs.
Key focus areas identified by experts include:
- Ethnic-based incidents rising sharply in urban centers
- Increased targeting of LGBTQ+ communities in both public and digital spaces
- Political extremism influencing patterns of aggression
| Type of Hate Crime | Reported Cases (2023) | Change From 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Ethnic Intimidation | 1,150 | +25% |
| Religious Harassment | 600 | +18% |
| LGBTQ+ Targeting | Source. —- 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6 – 7 – 8 |