Finnish schools see surge in threats and assaults, teachers report record complaints

According to one outlet Police Board, educational institutions submitted almost 7,000 crime reports last year, a figure that blends daycares, schools, universities and research sites. Assault was the most frequent alleged offense, and regional disparities reflect the uneven distribution of schools. In Rovaniemi, principal Petri Mäkelä warned that young pupils are already uttering threats such as “I’ll kill you” or “I’ll shoot you,” often without grasping the meaning.

The teachers’ union OAJ reports a dramatic rise in complaints, with roughly 200 contacts this year compared with only a few dozen five years ago, and 14% of teachers saying they faced violence or threats at work. Threats can originate from current or former pupils and even guardians, and incidents involving teachers often involve physical aggression like hitting or kicking.