Widespread workplace bullying reported in Finland’s wellbeing services counties

A new study reveals that 14 percent of employees in Finland’s wellbeing services counties have experienced workplace bullying, yet the issue has received little public attention, reports Yle.

The findings, uncovered by Yle through a direct request to the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, show that bullying is most prevalent among lower-tier staff, such as cleaners and care assistants. Only half of those targeted have reported the incidents to their employer.

The data emerged from a broader 2025 workplace wellbeing survey covering eight wellbeing services counties. While the published report briefly mentioned bullying alongside other workplace challenges, it did not highlight the issue as a key concern. Instead, the alarming figures surfaced during an internal staff meeting at the North Ostrobothnia Wellbeing Services County (Pohde), where employees reacted with shock to the statistics.

Hierarchy plays a clear role in exposure to bullying. Among maintenance staff, care aides, and cleaners, 24 percent reported experiencing bullying and 18 percent discrimination, compared to just 9 percent of doctors. Despite stated “zero-tolerance” policies, a recent case at Pohde saw three managers investigated for alleged misconduct toward an employee—though prosecutors declined to press charges, citing high investigation costs.

The decision not to pursue the case, despite workplace safety authorities finding probable cause, has raised concerns about accountability. With thousands of employees affected across Finland’s wellbeing services counties, critics argue that dismissing such cases as too costly sends a troubling message about the value placed on addressing workplace harassment in a critical public sector.