Finns Party distances itself from controversial textbook proposal in Heinola

The city council group of the Finns Party in Heinola has distanced itself from a proposal made by councilor Harri Salonen. On Monday, Salonen submitted a motion requesting the removal of two pages from a social studies textbook used in high schools. He argued that the representation of Finnish parliamentary parties is biased in the textbook, particularly noting that the Finns Party is the only party described as populist.

Mikko Rautkoski, the group leader of the Finns Party, was unaware of the proposal prior to its submission and stated that Salonen acted independently, not reflecting the views of the entire party group. Rautkoski expressed his disagreement, emphasizing that textbooks are created by professionals and should not have their content altered in such a manner.

Heinola High School Principal Johannes Rinkinen described the initiative as unusual, stating it is not common in Finland to pre-screen educational materials. He believes significant societal changes would need to occur before such measures are taken. Rinkinen mentioned that discussions among teachers and explanations about the proposal have occurred in class, though he noted that students appear to show little interest in the matter.

The proposal marks a rare instance in Rinkinen’s 30-year career, according to Pia Helander, the city’s education director, who indicated that such decisions should rest within schools’ operational practices. The matter will proceed to the welfare board for review before likely being addressed by the city council. Several other council members criticized the proposal, deeming it an unnecessary use of resources and questioning its appropriateness for council discussion.