Today was somewhat interesting day in Finland. The minister of migration and European affairs, Astrid Thors, is facing increasing opposition. Previously her statements have raised some eyebrows but now she managed to offend maybe way too many. She is pushing forward a new law of Aliens Act which is mostly about immigration and asylum seekers. The main problem of that proposal is that it would make Finland in immigration matters the most liberal country in Europe.

The trend in the rest of the Europe is pretty much opposite as countries tighten their borders after seeing effects of uncontrolled immigration. The problem is not with the people who come to work. The problem is the increasing number of asylum seekers without real reason to have asylum - except interest for a state supported life.

I did take a look at the official proposal and it does have some points that even I can agree with being problematic. For example, if an asylum seeker destroys his passport and other necessary documents, he cannot be deported. Technical reasons like this can be used to grant a residence permit until further notice (51 a §). This also grants the same permit for his family members.

Even though people in Finland are bit slow to react to things like this, the opposition started to scale. People are demanding Astrid Thors resignation. There is facebook group, online petition etc. But I don't believe there would be a protest in front of the parliament... that would be way too radical for Finns.