President Sauli Niinistö gave his annual New Year's Eve speech on Thursday, and he did not spare his words on the ongoing migrant crisis and Finland's part in reacting to the influx of asylum-seekers. He had stern words against the string of fiery attacks on Finnish reception centres.
"I'm an old school lawyer and in those days throwing a firebomb into a building that may have people in it was considered attempted murder by arson, and that is what it still is to me," he said. "It is a very heavy crime, as is persecution and hate-mongering against refugees. Too many such incidents have occurred."
Niinistö referred to suspicions of criminal activity among asylum-seekers and the surrounding controversy. Correct information and the openness of the authorities, he said, can prevent discussion from exceeding the limits of good taste.
"Not all incomers have the best intentions," Niinistö warned. "Some have a background in terrorist activity and others cause other kinds of trouble. The wicked experiences and actions of a few create unnecessary distrust against all migrants."
"Whether Finn or immigrant," he continued, "the authorities must clearly and precisely report on crimes and their repercussions. It calms strong emotions and yanks the carpet out from under obscene rumours."
"When in Rome"
The crises in the Middle East and Northern Africa continue to rage on, which means that more people will be seeking safe haven in Finland this year, too. Niinistö says it is understandable that many migrants come in search of a better life, but asylum is reserved for those in the direst of straits. This has not always been the case, he says.
"Innumerable people want to enter Finland, but our ability to take care of them all is limited. I think Sweden's Prime Minister [Stefan] Löfven said it best by saying "we have been naïve"."
Sweden has already tightened its immigration policies. Niinistö says he sees similar strictures on Finnish policy as a method to vouchsafe asylum for those who are most badly in need. Their task, he said, is to assimilate into Finnish society.
"It's the age-old adage that still rings true: when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Immigration must never mean that our core values of democracy, equality and human rights are questioned."
Stop to greed, things to be thankful for
President Niinistö has two main messages for the employment market: stop bickering and eradicate greed. Some advantages achieved in the past will have to be compromised in trying times.
But Niinistö also said that good things are happening as well. He raised Finnish people's increased desire to volunteer their help as a bright star of compassion.
"There are a lot of problems, but also many things to delight in. Volunteer work among refugees and helping our nearest and dearest in regular situations make us happy."
The rest of President Sauli Niinistö's paraphrased speech can be read in full here.
