By John Smith •
Updated: 26 Nov 2024 • 18:01 • 1 minute read
Police are worried that what should be a day of celebration on December 6, which is Finnish Independence Day could see a clash between the far right and far left.
It was in 1917, coinciding with the Russian Revolution, that Finland declared its independence and due to the chaos in Russia the Declaration of Independence was pushed through on December 6, 1917 with little opposition.
Finnish Independence Day celebrations may be marred by political clashes
For years it was seen as an opportunity for celebration, the flying of the Finnish flag, the lighting of two candles in each home and a student torch cavalcade plus many enjoyed a party.
This year however, as part of a Europe wide schism between supporters of ‘extreme’ political parties, it is expected that two main political groups will be meeting head on in Helsinki city centre.
Group 612 (named after Finnish SS Battalion) V Helsinki without Nazis
On the right the group 612 (named after the Finnish SS Battalion which fought for Nazi Germany) plans its annual march (first started in 2014) whilst it will be opposed by the Helsinki without Nazis group.
Police are urging both organisations to march in different areas of the city, but there is no guarantee that either side will take any notice of this plea.
So far, in accordance with legal requirements, the Helsinki police have been advised of five demonstrations, of which four are marches due to take place in the city on December 6.
Although there may be violence police don t expect it will overflow and affect those celebrating Independence Day
Although there are some marchers who clearly want to be involved in violence of some form and this is borne out by the fact that in previous years officers have confiscated knives and machetes as well as knuckle dusters from demonstrators, it is likely that violence will only be between hardcore supporters of each group and should not spill over to include passers-by.
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Married to Ophelia in Gibraltar in 1978, John has spent much of his life travelling on security print and minting business and visited every continent except Antarctica.
Having retired several years ago, the couple moved to their house in Estepona and John became a regular news writer for the EWN Media Group taking particular interest in Finance, Gibraltar and Costa del Sol Social Scene.
Currently he is acting as Editorial Consultant for the paper helping to shape its future development.
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