A Moment to Reflect: Why Finland’s Choices Matter for Human Rights
Sometimes, it is hard to talk about global issues — especially ones that feel far away. But when thousands of lives are lost, and people are suffering, staying silent does not feel right either.
That is why Finnish Human Rights Advocates Ry recently sent a complaint to the Parliamentary Ombudsman, asking for something simple, yet powerful:
A closer look at Finland’s current relationship with Israel — and whether we are truly standing up for the human rights we care so deeply about.
Why This Matters
The complaint is not about blaming anyone — it is about taking responsibility.
Finland has promised, through our Constitution and international agreements, to stand for human rights and protect people from harm. These include:
The Geneva Conventions
The UN Genocide Convention
The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court
The European Convention on Human Rights
And Finland’s own Constitution (Section 22), which says our authorities must guarantee basic rights for all.
So, when there is strong evidence that serious human rights violations are happening — like what is happening in Gaza — it begs the question: are we doing enough?
What Is Happening in Gaza?
Since October 2023, over 35,000 people and counting — many of them children — have lost their lives in Gaza.
Hospitals, schools, refugee camps, and even aid workers have been attacked.
International human rights organizations and UN experts have raised serious concerns — some even saying it meets the definition of genocide.
It is heart breaking. And the world cannot afford to ignore this.
Finland’s Role
Finland has continued its political and economic relationships with Israel. The NGO’s concern is that we have not:
Pressed pause on cooperation,
Supported sanctions or arms embargoes, or
Pushed for international investigations through courts like the ICC.
The point is not to say Finland is doing something wrong on purpose — but to ask, can we do more to protect lives and uphold our values?
Our Constitution is clear: protecting human rights is not just a goal — it is a duty.
That is why our NGO is asking the Ombudsman to take a closer look. It is about making sure we are living up to our principles and promises, especially during difficult times.
The Role of Civil Society
Human rights groups have an important role in society. They help keep the conversation going — especially when situations are complex and sensitive.
According to the United Nations, NGOs like Finnish Human Rights Advocates Ry have the right to:
Report concerns,
Ask questions, and
Encourage governments to act in line with human rights laws.
A Hopeful Request
The NGO is now asking the Ombudsman to:
Look into Finland’s relationship with Israel since October 2023,
See if there is anything that goes against Finnish or international law,
And suggest ways Finland can take peaceful and meaningful action — like pausing certain partnerships or supporting investigations.
These are not accusations. They are questions from people who care — and want to make sure Finland continues to be a country that puts human dignity first.
The Ombudsman has been given a 30-day window to respond. If no action or decision is made within that time, the case will be referred to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for further examination.
Why This Affects All of Us
Standing up for human rights is not always easy. But it is something Finland has always been proud of.
This moment is just a reminder:
Let’s stay true to who we are. Let’s keep standing for fairness, peace, and justice — even when it’s difficult.
Because when we act with compassion, we make the world better — not just for others, but for all of us.
Date: 22 June 2025
