More protests against government and racism around Finland this weekend | News

Marches were held in Tampere, Lappeenranta, Kotka and Kouvola, with a similar event planned for Jyväskylä on Sunday.

Demonstrations opposing either the government’s actions, racism – or both – were held around Finland this weekend.

On Saturday afternoon there were anti-government marches in Tampere, Lappeenranta, Kotka and Kouvola.

The organisers of the Tampere protest, under the slogan “Down with the far-right government,” accused the government led by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) of normalising the extreme right and racism and deepening social inequality.

Police estimated that there were approximately 400–500 participants. According to an Yle reporter on the scene, the event passed off peacefully, with no counter-protesters. Saturday’s other protests were smaller. A similar event is planned for Jyväskylä on Sunday, following a Pride march there on Saturday.

This weekend’s marches follow an anti-racism demonstration in Helsinki last Sunday that drew an estimated 11,000 people, and another one in July that drew an estimated 5,000 people.

On Wednesday, the government defended its anti-racism statement in Parliament and on Friday received votes of confidence, fending off challenges from several opposition parties over the hot-button issue.