UJF condemns the vandalism directed at the Kankaanpään Seutu newspaper. Over the weekend, a window of the local paper Kankaanpään Seutu in the western Finnish region of Satakunta was smashed with a brick, and the tyres on all of the newsroom’s cars were slashed, causing damage to the vehicles. The police are investigating the incident. “Harassment and vandalism of this kind targeting the media are a serious threat to media freedom,” says UJF President Marjaana Varmavuori. “Obstructing and threatening journalistic work is completely unacceptable.” Despite the incident, Pekka Söderlund, editor-in-chief of Kankaanpään Seutu, says that the newsroom’s work is continuing as normal. He will not speculate on the cause of the vandalism. “Local newspapers are important for regional information provision and for democracy. I hope the case of vandalism is resolved and the newsroom can continue its important work undisturbed,” says Varmavuori. Physical intimidation, harassment or threats against journalists are relatively rare in Finland. However, in a 2024 survey conducted by the University of Tampere, almost one in four respondents said they had experienced such behaviour. Although Finland remains one of the leading countries for press freedom, the media have come under exceptional pressure and criticism in recent years. “The trend has been worrying for a long time,” says Varmavuori. “It is a short step from vandalism to violence. That is why it is crucial that this case is investigated thoroughly.” Avainsanat: Marjaana Varmavuori UJF