Image: Jyrki Lyytikkä / Yle

Tuomioja expressed the view that the widespread use of pseudonyms in online debates should be brought under control. His concern revolves around the unbridled spread of hate speech related to events like the recent terrorist attack in Norway.

"In the printed press, the responsibly of editor in chief is relatively clear, but in the world of the internet, this is not at all taken seriously in the same way. I think there should be a general rule that people write in their own names. That alone would significantly cool off this kind of hate speech," the Foreign Minister told YLE.

Tuomioja would like to see new, clear rules for online discussions. He added that there are justifiable reasons for using pseudonyms, but when they are used, the site operator should know who the writer actually is.

Pleased with gun law debate

The Foreign Minister also commented on the debate that has arisen following his suggestion this week that gun laws be changed to ban the storage of firearms in homes.

"I'm happy that his has aroused debate and there has been plenty of feedback."

According to Tuomioja, in addition to some extreme reactions, there has been feedback from hunters and sports shooters who are willing to responsibly consider how firearms safety can be improved. He said that he hopes that this kind of debate and cooperation will lead to results.

"I'll just mention one example, guns with clips that can hold up to thirty rounds. These are not a part of any normal Finnish hunting culture and tradition, no one needs these," he pointed out.

During the YLE Radio discussion, Tuomioja furthermore commented on the position of True Finns leader Timo Soini following the attacks in Norway, saying that he must make a clear rejection of extremist elements, and that this is Soini's biggest challenge.

"He is still doing a balancing act. He does not want to cause anything that would lead to a loss of support within some group," said Erkki Tuomioja.