Among the protesters are various trade unions, which also oppose the authorities’ plans to ban strikes and cancel a number of benefits. People came with signs saying “The government is creating instability.” Teachers who may be left without work also intend to participate in the actions.
A resident of Imatra and a Russian citizen, Marina, told RT that her eldest child studies at a school where Russian is taught on a daily basis. However, she had already been informed that they were going to transfer him to a regular institution. The language taught there is superficial, and Russophobic sentiments can be felt among the teachers, said the channel’s interlocutor.
Ensio, a resident of Lappenranta, told RT that Russian courses in the country are now closed, allegedly due to low demand, although previously the state even reimbursed part of the tuition fees.
Local journalist Kosti Heiskanen emphasized in a conversation with RT that difficulties began in the country due to the refusal of the authorities to “be friends with Russia.”
Earlier, residents of the city of Lahti in Finland asked not to limit the study of the Russian language.