Finland reports record increase in hate crimes with 1,606 cases in 2023

In 2023, Finland recorded a record number of suspected hate crimes, with a total of 1,606 cases reported to the police. This marks a significant 29% increase from the previous year, amounting to 361 additional incidents. According to a recent report from the Police College of Finland, most of these hate crimes were related to the victim’s ethnic or national background, accounting for 1,092 reported cases. Public roads, streets, or squares were the most common locations for these crimes, with assault being the most frequent offense.

The perpetrators were often members of the majority population, while victims predominantly belonged to minority groups. Among the victims, 60% were men and 40% were women. Crimes against men often involved suspected assaults, while women more frequently experienced allegations of defamation.

The increase in reported hate crimes has been consistent over the years. Since 2020, cases have nearly doubled, surpassing even the peak in 2015 when there was a surge in reported incidents amid discussions surrounding thousands of asylum seekers arriving in Finland.

Ethnicity remains the primary motive, as it has constituted about 70% of all reported hate crimes over the last decade. Among the minorities in Finland, Somali citizens faced the highest rate of suspected hate crimes, with their victimization nearly doubling compared to the previous year.

Additionally, reports of crimes motivated by sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression increased by 54%, with a particularly notable rise in incidents related to sexual orientation.

There was also a twofold increase in the number of charges for incitement against a specific group, prompting the European Commission to urge Finland to tighten its legislation in this area. Despite recommendations from a working group, no legislative actions have yet been taken by the Ministry of Justice.