Sign causes controversy over dress codes for Muslim women at Hansasilta bridge in Helsinki

A sign that appeared at the Hansasilta bridge in Itäkeskus, Helsinki, has caused a stir this week by offering specific dress codes for Muslim women. The sign stated that women should wear full-body cloaks, implying that shorter dresses worn over pants are inappropriate. It featured images categorizing “acceptable” and “inappropriate” clothing. According to Ilta-Sanomat, the individual who placed the sign later claimed that the message was misunderstood. He expressed his intention to remind women of the modesty requirements in the Quran rather than to dictate attire.

By midday Friday, the sign was taken down. Around 12:30 PM, security personnel arrived and requested all stall operators on the bridge to leave, leading to the absence of any stalls shortly thereafter. Mikko Syrjänen, the CEO of the property management company that oversees Hansasilta, emphasized to Yle that while the bridge is a public walkway, it is still private property. He stated that activities such as selling or erecting banners without permission are not allowed, especially since the area serves as an emergency passage.

Opinions on the sign vary. Helsinki resident and Muslim Elli Olivia Leino expressed her surprise at seeing such a sign in a public space, arguing that individual opinions on clothing should not become public statements. Anni Harni from Tuusula found the sign somewhat distressing and inappropriate, advocating for rules that apply to all groups equally in public spaces. Other locals, including Daryoush Kavosifar from Iran and Anisha Adhikari from Nepal, firmly rejected the message, supporting the idea that women should have the freedom to dress as they choose without external mandates.