Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo apologized to Japan, China and South Korea after a racist social-media post by then–Miss Finland Sarah Dzafce and similar gestures by several Finnish lawmakers sparked international and domestic condemnation. The Miss Finland Organization revoked Dzafce’s title on Dec. 11. Japan formally raised the matter with Finnish officials, and the episode has intensified debate in Finland about racism and political accountability.
Finland’s Prime Minister Apologizes to Japan, China and South Korea After Racist Gestures by Miss Finland and Lawmakers
Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo sent formal apologies via embassy channels to the governments of Japan, China and South Korea after a racist social-media post by then–Miss Finland titleholder Sarah Dzafce and subsequent photos by several Finnish lawmakers provoked condemnation across Asia and at home.
What Happened
In late November, Sarah Dzafce posted a photo in which she pulled the outer corners of her eyes — a gesture widely perceived as mocking East Asian features — along with a caption referencing “eating with a Chinese person.” The image spread quickly online and drew sharp criticism from users, media outlets and officials in Japan, South Korea and China.
Domestic and International Backlash
The situation escalated when several members of the Finns Party, a right-wing member of Orpo’s governing coalition, posted photos of themselves imitating the same slanted-eye gesture. Those posts were criticized by coalition partners, opposition politicians and many in Finland’s Asian communities, who said the images reflected recurring racial insensitivity.
“These posts do not reflect Finland’s values of equality and inclusion,” Orpo said in his apology, adding that “racism and discrimination have no place in Finnish society.”
Finns of Asian background told local media the posts echoed stereotypes they face in everyday life. Jiafu Zhong told broadcaster Yle: “I don't accept racism. It's not funny in any way. I don't want my cousins or other sweet kids to be exposed to the kinds of images politicians have been putting out. I feel proud to belong to more than one culture.”
Diplomatic Response
Japan raised the matter directly with Finnish officials after the lawmakers’ images circulated. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara told reporters that Japan had expressed its expectation for appropriate action and would maintain close communication with Finland on the issue.
The Miss Finland Organization removed Dzafce from her title on Dec. 11, citing conduct inconsistent with the responsibilities of a national representative. The incident has prompted broader discussion in Finland about racial sensitivity, political responsibility and the potential diplomatic costs of public conduct by prominent figures.
