The Finnish trade Union of Education (OAJ) has raised concerns about a sharp increase in crime-related contacts to its legal advisors. According to Ulla Walli, OAJ’s head of legal affairs, these inquiries have grown by approximately 60% per year over several consecutive years. Walli attributes this trend not only to worsening student well-being but also to a lowered threshold for filing criminal complaints. Parents are now more readily threatening teachers and schools with police reports, sometimes prompting schools to file preemptive reports to ensure impartial investigations. Criminal proceedings can carry severe consequences for educators. Some teachers have been suspended from duty during investigations, losing their right to salary. OAJ receives around 200 requests annually for legal aid related to criminal matters, a figure that has risen significantly in recent years. These cases involve teachers both as suspects and victims. Common allegations include assault, often stemming from classroom discipline, such as removing disruptive students or intervening in fights during breaks. Sexual offense allegations also occur, though Walli notes they are not numerous. Teachers increasingly report being victims themselves, including physical attacks like being hit, scratched, or kicked. Online defamation and death threats from students are also frequent reasons for seeking legal counsel. Walli emphasizes that union safety representatives and shop stewards provide additional support. She warns that reported cases may only represent the tip of the iceberg. While most incidents are resolved between schools and families, roughly 20–30 cases yearly escalate to police. Of these, about 80% end at the age of criminal responsibility in Finland.
Read more: Helsinki Shell Station Demolition Tests Finnish Heritage Pro....
Read more: Finnish Fashion Brand Voglia Files for Bankruptcy After 41 Y....