The Prime Minister of Finland has issued an apology to Asian countries after Miss Finland shared a controversial photo on social media.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo shared an apology this past Wednesday, published by the Finnish embassies in Japan, China, and South Korea. “Racism and discrimination have no place in Finnish society,” said Orpo, per NBC News.
“The message we convey to the people of Finland and to all our friends abroad is clear: the Finnish Government takes racial discrimination seriously and is committed to addressing it.”
The Prime Minister's apology was prompted by a photo shared by Sarah Dzafce, 22, the winner of this year's Miss Finland pageant. The image, shared on her social media channels, showed her pulling the corners of her eyes. "Eating with a Chinese person," read its accompanying caption.
Within minutes, the post drew offended responses, prompting Dzafce to delete it and issue an apology. “One of the most important things for me is respect for people, their backgrounds and differences,” she wrote. “I take responsibility for my actions and will learn from this.”
Miss Finland's title was stripped
Shortly after, Dzafce was stripped of her title by the Miss Finland association. In a statement, the organization criticized Dzafce's post, calling it "offensive, harmful, and completely against the values" of the organization.
"Miss Finland holds a position of role-model status, which requires respecting all people regardless of their origin, background, or appearance," continued the statement.
"We are deeply sorry for the harm these events have caused. Especially to the Asian community, but also to everyone affected. Racism is never acceptable in any form."
The decision to strip Dzafce prompted further backlash from some parts of the Finnish government. Two members of the Finns Party, a right-wing political party in the country, shared images in solidarity with Dzafce, mimicking her gesture.
The Prime Minister criticized the actions of these MPs, calling them "childish" and making it clear that lawmakers should set an example of proper conduct.
The Finnish Embassy in Japan issued a statement sharing that racism is a topic that must be addressed. "Racism remains a challenge in Finnish society, and its resolution requires continuous and resolute efforts," reads the post, shared on X.