Finland has recorded a sharp rise in hate crimes in 2025, reaching the highest level since records began, according to local media reports.
Racist Motives Behind Most Hate Crimes
Data from Finland’s Police University College showed that nearly 70 percent of the hate crime reports were motivated by the victims’ ethnic or national background.
The report, cited by national broadcaster Yle, revealed that police recorded 1,808 suspected hate crimes this year — a 13 percent increase from 2023.
The majority of incidents involved verbal abuse, threats, and harassment, continuing a steady rise observed since around 2020.
Officials noted that hate crimes most often carried racist motives and that many cases targeted people of foreign descent.
Legal Context and Expert Insights
The Police University College explained that Finland’s Criminal Code does not define “hate crimes” or “hate speech” as separate categories.
However, a hate motive serves as an aggravating factor, leading to harsher penalties when proven in court.
Researcher Jenita Rauta from the Police University College described the trend as deeply concerning.
“In my opinion, the increase in hate crimes against people with disabilities reflects a broader societal polarisation,” she said, adding that vulnerable groups face growing hostility.
Muslims and Syrians Most Targeted
According to the report, Syrians were the most targeted group, with Muslims forming a majority of the victims.
Most suspected hate crimes occurred online, highlighting the growing role of digital platforms in spreading hate-based offenses.
