On Finland’s Independence Day, the police decided to permit the central gathering of the neo-Nazi 612 march. Simultaneously, the demonstration “Helsinki without Nazis” was prohibited.
This depicts Finland in 2023 under an ultranationalist government. Neo-Nazis, trampling on human rights, are allowed to freely march near the festivities of those in power, while a counter-demonstration is simultaneously forbidden.
Until now, everyone in Finland has had the right to protest. The police have had the authority to redirect protests elsewhere if they are deemed disruptive. Apparently, there is no need to relocate the Nazi demonstration, even as Finland’s independence is being celebrated.
Finnish police apprehended those protesting against Nazis, all the while allowing Nazis to roam freely, advocating for the restriction of human rights. Some of the counterprotesters were arrested due to not following orders from the police, though.
At this point this seems like a questionable action by the government and the police. We must remember though that some of the politicians from alt-right the Finns party have close connections with the groups organizing these marchers. This party is also against democracy and human rights for minorities. Now they are leading Finland.
Finland appears to be heading down the path of Hungary. Europe needs to be informed and support Finland’s preservation of independence. We voice our concerns, but unfortunately, we seem to be falling victim to the terror of an ultranationalist government.
