Public reports of indecency declining in Finland despite rising sexual fantasies

Reports of public sex and nudity are decreasing in Finland, according to police data. In 2010, there were 315 reports of violations of public decency, while last year saw only 159 incidents, marking a near halving in numbers. Osmo Kontula, an emeritus research professor at the Väestöliitto (Family Federation of Finland), suggests that while the public engagement in sexual activities may be increasing, fewer people are reporting these incidents to the police.

The threshold for reporting has risen as societal tolerance has grown, according to Kontula. His assessment is based on research indicating that public sexual acts are a common fantasy among many individuals. He explains that one of the most common fantasies is to engage in sexual acts in public with a slight risk of being seen, as this risk can be arousing, even if the desire is to avoid being caught.

Kontula notes that such fantasies often manifest more in warmer months, particularly involving activities like sex in a car. The issue gained media attention following reports about “sex rocks” in Valkeakoski, where people arrange sexual encounters in public spaces. There have been no police reports of lewd conduct in the area, and the city has also not received complaints regarding these locations.

Kontula stresses that laws against public indecency are designed to protect children from inappropriate exposure. Violations can result in fines or imprisonment of up to six months, and law enforcement generally addresses cases involving indecent exposure, public sexual activity, and lewd public performances. Despite the apparent increase in such public fantasies, incidents rarely end up being reported to law enforcement.