AVEK ry is an association focused on opposing and preventing antisemitism. We work to raise awareness, collect information about antisemitism in Finland, and promote a more just society.

Antisemitism refers to a set of deeply rooted and partly unconscious beliefs directed against Jews, Jewish communities, or Jewish collectives. It can manifest itself as individual attitudes or in culture, for example, as imagery, ideology, folklore, feelings related to stereotypes, and especially conspiracy theories. Antisemitism can also manifest itself as actions, such as discrimination, anti-Jewish political movements, or state violence. The goal of such actions is to alienate, destroy, or expel the target because of their Jewishness.

Antisemitism can affect people other than Jews. Many experience antisemitism because they are: • perceived as Jewish • associated with Judaism or the Jewish community • defending Jews or opposing antisemitism • working with or supporting Jewish communities or events Antisemitism often targets assumptions rather than a person’s actual identity. That is why your experience is real, even if you are not Jewish.

Antisemitism can arise in many everyday situations, for example: • on the street or in public spaces • at work or in educational settings • on social media and online • in conversations where Judaism or Israel is discussed in a hostile or stigmatizing way • in situations where Jews are held collectively responsible It may be a single encounter or a recurring pattern that becomes a long-term burden.

Antisemitism is often: • normalized • hidden in humor, insinuations, or so-called “critical” language • dismissed as political speech • expressed indirectly Because of this, many people begin to question their own experience. That does not mean the experience is invalid.

Antisemitism is a form of discrimination and hate speech that threatens the safety and human rights of individuals. History, especially the horrors of the Holocaust, reminds us of what antisemitic thinking and actions can lead to. Learning from past mistakes helps prevent similar tragedies in the future. Antisemitism also endangers individual rights and civil peace. Stereotypes and conspiracy theories, such as claims of Jewish world domination, fuel hatred and distrust that undermine the foundations of democracy. Democracy requires respect for diversity and equality. Antisemitism and other forms of discrimination erode these values. Combating antisemitism is essential to building a just and safe society in which everyone can live without fear or stigma.

Antisemitism exists in Finland, and studies show that it has increased in recent years. According to a 2023 study (https://valtioneuvosto.fi/-/1410853/selvitys-antisemitismi-lisaantynyt-suomessa-viiden-viime-vuoden-aikana)by the Human Rights Centre and the Ministry of Justice, over 80 percent of respondents felt that antisemitism had increased in the past five years. Antisemitism, especially on the internet, in the media and in political life, emerged as the biggest problems. The study also highlighted the effects on the everyday lives of Jews: more than a third of respondents said they avoid wearing objects that could identify them as Jews, such as a kippah or the Star of David. These results highlight the need to collect more information about antisemitic incidents in Finland so that we can understand the extent of the phenomenon and develop effective policies to combat it.

Our work focuses on raising awareness, education, research and reporting. We also provide resources and tools for individuals and organizations to identify and address antisemitism. Follow us on social media,(https://www.instagram.com/aveksuomi/) as we will be sharing more about our work soon!

AVEK ry is here to support you if you encounter antisemitism. You can contact us if you need help handling the situation or want to discuss the issue. We do not offer legal advice, but we can: • Direct you to the right people, such as authorities. • Provide information and resources that can help you understand and deal with the situation. General guidelines if you encounter antisemitism: 1. Always report serious incidents to the police or authorities. Serious acts, such as physical threats or criminal activity, should always be reported to the authorities, who can take appropriate action. 2. Report antisemitic incidents to us via our website.(https://www.aveksuomi.fi/en/ilmoitatapaus) Each report helps us understand the prevalence and nature of antisemitic acts in Finland. The information collected is important so that we can analyze situations and promote more effective action models. 3. Seek support. Antisemitism can be personally overwhelming. If you need emotional support, we encourage you to reach out to us or other support organizations.

You can support the work against antisemitism in many ways: Become our supporting member As a supporting member, you help AVEK ry in its work to combat antisemitism and contribute to building a safer and more just society. Your membership enables us to prepare reports, organize educational programs, and raise awareness. By becoming a member, you take part in making a tangible difference. You can become a supporting member here (https://www.aveksuomi.fi/#tue-toimintaa). Follow us on Instagram Follow AVEK ry's Instagram account ( @aveksuomi (https://www.instagram.com/aveksuomi/)) to get the latest information, updates and announcements about our work. Participate and share information By participating in our events and sharing our updates, you can help raise awareness in your own community. Sharing reliable information about antisemitism fosters understanding and promotes change. Report antisemitic incidents Let us know about incidents you have witnessed through our website.(https://www.aveksuomi.fi/ilmoitatapaus) Every report helps us to better understand antisemitism and develope more effective solutions.