Puhdistustasosta

Puhdistustasosta, also known as the "purification class" or "cleansing class," was a system of racial classification and segregation implemented in Finland during the 1930s and 1940s. The system was established to address the perceived threat of communism and foreign influence, particularly from the Soviet Union, during the interwar period. Under this system, individuals were categorized into three main groups: Finnish, Swedish, and "others." The "others" category included individuals of non-Finnish or non-Swedish origin, such as Russians, Jews, and Romani people.

The puhdistustasosta system led to the segregation of these groups in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and social activities. Those classified as "others" faced significant discrimination and restrictions, which often resulted in economic hardship and social marginalization. The system was officially abolished in 1944, following the end of World War II and the Soviet Union's occupation of Finland. However, its legacy of racial discrimination and segregation continued to influence Finnish society for decades.