AVEK ry – A New Center to Combat Antisemitism in Finland

In January 2025, a significant new organization was founded in Finland: AVEK ry – The Center for Combating and Preventing Antisemitism. Its mission is to combat and prevent antisemitism in all its forms. The organization’s work is grounded in strong expertise and diverse professional skills, contributed by researchers, educators, and specialists in societal issues and communications.

AVEK focuses on raising awareness, providing education, conducting research, and producing reports. Additionally, it offers practical resources and tools for individuals and organizations to identify and address antisemitism. The need for such efforts in Finland is evident: the small size and limited visibility of the Jewish community often mean that antisemitism does not receive the attention it deserves. Many people fail to recognize the various forms of antisemitism or may unwittingly perpetuate them.

Research findings published in 2024 shed light on alarming trends. Antisemitism has significantly increased in Finland in recent years. Its rise, particularly online, in the media, and in political discourse, is deeply concerning. Furthermore, many Jewish individuals report experiencing discrimination and alienation in their daily lives, underscoring the need for organizations like AVEK.

One of AVEK’s founding members, Liron Berger, described the emotional impact of antisemitic incidents:
“We realized how the feeling of helplessness in the face of antisemitism is a shared experience for all Jews in Finland—whether at work, in the media, public spaces, or daily life. Our goal is to ensure that Jews in Finland can live safely and that antisemitism is exposed and addressed clearly. This is not a politically affiliated issue; it is a phenomenon that can appear across the political spectrum.”

Another founding member, Shani Armon, highlighted the events of the past year and their aftermath:
“The events of October 7 shocked us all, and part of the tragedy was how the world responded to the events and the explosive rise in antisemitism that followed. However we don’t want to dwell in despair; instead, we’ve decided to act. It is empowering to do something concrete.”

The launch of AVEK ry represents a significant step toward a society where antisemitism is recognized, addressed, and Jewish rights and safety are ensured. However, this work is not the responsibility of the Jewish community alone—it is a duty for society as a whole.

Join the fight against antisemitism— become a supporting member (click here) or follow AVEK on Instagram (click here) !

If you have encountered or witnessed an antisemitic incident, you can share your experience: click here. Sharing your experiences helps us collect information about antisemitism in Finland.