English
The Finland racism scandal apology dominated headlines after Prime Minister Petteri Orpo addressed Asian nations on Wednesday. He issued the apology to calm outrage over racist images shared by coalition lawmakers. Finnish embassies released the statement in China, Japan, and South Korea. Orpo stressed that the images violated Finland’s core values.
He said the posts failed to reflect equality and inclusion. He added that Finland takes racism seriously and works to combat it. The apology marked a rare direct outreach to foreign governments over domestic controversy.
Beauty pageant controversy sparks backlash
The scandal began earlier this month with former Miss Finland winner Sarah Dzafce. A social media photo showed her pulling back her eyes. The caption referenced eating with a Chinese person.
Many viewers condemned the image as racist and offensive. Dzafce later apologized and said she never intended harm. “Stay connected to every major update — subscribe and follow us on the PhoenixQ website and across our social media platforms.”She accepted responsibility and pledged to learn from the incident. Despite the apology, the Miss Finland organization revoked her title. Organizers said her post violated competition values.
Lawmakers deepen the crisis
The controversy escalated when politicians echoed the image. Two Finnish MPs and one European Parliament member copied the gesture. All belong to the right-wing populist Finns Party. They shared the images after the pageant stripped Dzafce of her crown. One MP, Juho Eerola, later apologized publicly.
He declined further comment when contacted by reporters. Kaisa Garedew and Sebastian Tynkkynen also shared similar photos. Their party issued formal reprimands. Finns Party leader Jani Mäkelä confirmed disciplinary action. He said lawmakers received serious warnings. He promised such incidents would not recur.
Political tensions resurface
The Finland racism scandal apology revived earlier tensions within Orpo’s coalition. Shortly after taking office in 2023, lawmakers faced a no-confidence vote. That vote followed racist comments by Finns Party ministers.
Although the government survived, scrutiny never faded. Critics argue the scandal reflects deeper cultural issues. Supporters claim swift apologies show accountability. For now, Orpo aims to preserve both domestic stability and foreign trust.
Global pageant troubles add pressure
The incident also connects to wider controversy surrounding global beauty contests. This year’s Miss Universe competition faced multiple disputes. Contestants staged walkouts during a ceremony in Thailand.
An executive reportedly insulted Miss Mexico.
Thai courts later issued a fraud-related arrest warrant. These events intensified criticism of pageant culture worldwide. The Finnish scandal now joins that broader narrative.
Diplomatic image at stake
Experts say Finland risks reputational damage in Asia. The government hopes early diplomacy limits long-term harm. Orpo’s message emphasized respect, accountability, and inclusion. Whether the apology succeeds remains unclear.
