Finnish MPs' reality show secrecy sparks debate over parliamentary absences

Finnish members of parliament are reportedly being instructed by the production company Banijay Finland not to reveal the true reason for their absences when participating in the reality television program "Erikoisjoukot" (Special Forces). The production company confirmed this practice to Helsingin Sanomat but declined to provide specific details about the contracts involved.

“

If the voters find it okay that their representative spends time appearing in reality series, then there's nothing else to say.

This issue gained attention when Perussuomalaiset MP Mikko Lundén's participation in the show was reported. Lundén has not been available for comment. Previously, Green Party chair Sofia Virta faced criticism in June for being absent from parliament during the filming of "Erikoisjoukot." She initially cited "personal reasons" for her absence, a category that typically includes family leave, illness, or bereavement according to parliamentary rules.

Banijay Finland stated that participants are instructed to remain silent about their involvement, citing "promotional and content needs" for the show. This applies to all participants. The practice has sparked debate among parliamentary group leaders regarding the acceptability of absences for which the true reason cannot be openly disclosed.

“

I don't want to start advising colleagues specifically; the media and voters are quite sharp if they see that an MP's interest lies more in entertainment than parliamentary work.

Antti Kurvinen, chair of the Centre Party's parliamentary group, noted that MPs have broad independence under the constitution. He suggested that if voters find an MP's participation in reality shows acceptable, then it is their prerogative. Kurvinen finds it difficult to draw lines on which reality shows are acceptable, stating that the media and voters are perceptive enough to notice if entertainment seems to interest an MP more than parliamentary work. He views the non-disclosure requirement as a common business practice but considers the mislabeling of absences a bigger problem.

“

It is also a quite common practice in business and corporate life. I consider the mislabeling of these absences a bigger problem.

Seppo Eskelinen, second deputy chair of the Social Democratic Party's parliamentary group, believes that MPs need more clarification on absence policies, as they are not sufficiently understood. He suggests reviewing the criteria for recording absences. Eskelinen also stated that extended absences from parliamentary duties for TV filming are not part of an MP's responsibilities, though each representative is ultimately accountable for their own actions.

“

The criteria for the entries should be reviewed.