Finnish Mission Society seeks information on past abuses against children
The Finnish Mission Society is requesting information regarding potential past abuses against children linked to the organization.
The Finnish Mission Society has issued a call for information on allegations of abuse and maltreatment of children that may have occurred in its history. In a statement, the organization noted that it is seeking information through various reporting channels, prompted by suspicions that there have been incidents that either went unreported or were inadequately investigated. They encourage submissions both from Finland and areas where the Mission Society has operated, hoping for responses throughout 2026. Reports can be made anonymously or under one's name, and an independent expert group will handle the submissions.
The call for information follows previous allegations reported by Yle in 2013 regarding child abuse at the Mission Society's boarding school in Taiwan, which was said to have occurred between the 1960s and 1990s. The organization asserted that it had attempted to investigate these incidents with the police at the time. However, the extent of the investigations was questioned, and those identified as potential victims may have not received adequate support or resolution of their claims. The ongoing concerns demonstrate a critical need for transparency and accountability within organizations working with children.
If any criminal activities were to emerge from the submissions, the Mission Society has stated that they would be handed over to the police for further investigation. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of children in the care of religious and humanitarian organizations, and it highlights the importance of listening to survivors' voices.