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Finland’s government is grappling with an international crisis and accusations of racism from several Asian countries after its Miss Universe representative was photographed pulling the corners of her eyes, a gesture widely considered offensive to Asians.
Sarah Dzafce lost her Miss Finland crown last week following the viral spread of the controversial photo on social media. The image, which included the caption “eating with a Chinese,” sparked outrage across Finland and Asia, with many condemning it as discriminatory.
Dzafce, who won the Miss Finland title in September, claimed she was attempting to relieve a headache when the photo was taken. According to The Helsinki Times, she stated that a friend shared the private image and added the caption without her knowledge. When approached by The Associated Press for comment, Dzafce did not respond.
On December 8, Dzafce posted an apology on social media, expressing that she never intended to hurt anyone. “The Miss Finland title is not just a crown for me, but also a responsibility. A responsibility for how I speak, how I act, and how my actions can affect people,” she wrote in Finnish. “I take responsibility for my actions and will learn from this.”
Despite her apology, the Miss Finland Organization revoked her status as Miss Finland 2025 days later, acknowledging the harm caused by the incident. “The events of recent days have caused deep hurt, disappointment, and concern both in Finland and internationally — fully understandably,” the organization stated on social media. “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 situation intensified when several far-right Finnish politicians from the ruling coalition showed support for Dzafce by posting their own photos mimicking the same eye-pulling gesture on social media, transforming what began as an individual incident into a diplomatic crisis.
The controversy has reverberated throughout Asia, prompting Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo to issue formal apologies to several countries, including Japan and South Korea. These apologies were posted in local languages on Finnish embassy social media accounts.
“These posts do not reflect Finland’s values of equality and inclusion,” Orpo’s statement emphasized. “Racism and discrimination have no place in Finnish society. Our message in Finland and to all our friends abroad is that the Government takes racism seriously and is committed to combat the issue. Finland always aims to do better. Politicians have a responsibility to serve as examples in this respect.”
Japan’s government has officially contacted the Finnish embassy in Tokyo to express its concerns about the incident. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara, the government’s top spokesperson, acknowledged Orpo’s apology while noting that Japan had conveyed its “concern about the case and expectations for an appropriate response.”
The scandal threatens to damage Finland’s tourism industry, which relies significantly on Asian visitors. Some users on social platform X have called for boycotts of travel to Finland and its national carrier, Finnair. The airline’s senior vice president of communications, Päivyt Tallqvist, told Finnish broadcaster Yle that the controversy has already negatively impacted the company’s international operations, though specific details were not provided.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges with racial sensitivity in European countries and the rapid international consequences that can unfold in the age of social media, particularly when political figures amplify controversial gestures rather than helping to resolve them.
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14 Comments
This is an unfortunate incident that highlights the need for greater cultural sensitivity and understanding. While the Miss Finland contestant may not have intended to offend, her actions were insensitive and perpetuated harmful stereotypes. It’s important that public figures and organizations take responsibility for their actions and work to educate themselves and their communities.
I agree. Awareness and education are key to preventing such incidents in the future and promoting a more inclusive society.
The public outcry over this incident highlights the need for greater cultural competence and sensitivity, especially among those in positions of influence. While the Miss Finland contestant’s actions may have been unintentional, the impact is still deeply hurtful and damaging. Addressing this through education and accountability is crucial.
The outrage over this incident is understandable, as gestures that mock or demean minority groups should not be tolerated, even if unintentional. It’s a reminder that we must be vigilant in addressing any form of prejudice or discrimination, whether subtle or overt.
The outrage over this incident is understandable, as gestures that mock or demean minority groups should not be tolerated, even if unintentional. It’s a reminder that we must be vigilant in addressing any form of prejudice or discrimination, whether subtle or overt.
While the Miss Finland contestant may have meant no harm, her actions were still hurtful and reinforced harmful stereotypes. It’s encouraging to see her take responsibility and apologize, but the real test will be in how she and the organization use this as a learning opportunity to promote greater cultural sensitivity and diversity.
This controversy serves as a sobering reminder that even small actions can have far-reaching consequences, particularly when they involve the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes. The Miss Finland organization and contestant have an opportunity to turn this into a learning moment and demonstrate a genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Absolutely. Meaningful change often starts with acknowledging mistakes and taking concrete steps to address them. I hope this incident leads to positive reforms and greater awareness.
This controversy highlights the need for greater cultural awareness and sensitivity, especially among those in positions of influence. While the Miss Finland contestant may not have intended harm, her actions were still hurtful and reinforced harmful stereotypes. Addressing this through education and accountability is crucial.
Agreed. Promoting inclusivity and diversity should be a top priority for organizations like Miss Finland. It’s an opportunity to turn this into a positive learning experience.
This incident serves as a reminder that even small, seemingly innocuous actions can have a significant impact on marginalized communities. It’s important for public figures to be mindful of the power they wield and the messages they send, and to prioritize education and understanding over insensitive behavior.
Agreed. Promoting cultural awareness and inclusivity should be a top priority for organizations like Miss Finland.
The outrage over this incident is understandable, as gestures that mock or demean minority groups should not be tolerated, even if unintentional. It’s a reminder that we must be vigilant in addressing any form of prejudice or discrimination, whether subtle or overt.
Absolutely. Accountability and a commitment to learning from this experience will be important for the Miss Finland organization and the contestant.