Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (HSL) has reversed its decision to remove a controversial ad on public transport.
"We have updated the material so that it is clearer regarding the context of the campaign and what it is about, HSL spokesperson Johannes Laitila told Yle.
HSL on Tuesday announced it had removed the ad from its screens in stations and onboard public transport.
The campaign materials feature the popular YouTube duo Molybros, Ibrahim 'Iba' Manza and Abdirahman Keinaan. The ad aims to convey that using a false ticket on public transport is a crime.
The duo took to Instagram to respond to the debate sparked by the campaign, saying, "we are deeply disappointed and frustrated that non-minorities are taking it upon themselves to speak for us and define what constitutes racism."
According to HSL, the materials have given the impression to some that the campaigners represent counterfeit ticket users.
HSL said that the ads had been perceived by many as racist, as they did not identify the social media influencers selected to reach young people. The transit authority said the campaign will continue online and on the influencers' social media pages.
The Molybros said such action takes away the voice of those who have experienced discrimination and the effects of racism first-hand.
"We understand that such topics evoke strong emotions. We want to emphasise that we have a large young following and we want to encourage them to make responsible choices in their lives. Therefore, we believe that HSL's fake ticket campaign is a good way to highlight important issues."
In addition to MolyBros, musician Nuppu Oinas and social media personality Henry Weckström — also known by his channel name Weksi — have been involved in the campaign.
According to HSL, many young people are unaware that using a forged ticket is not just a warning or an inspection fee handed out by the transport authority, but a legal matter handled by the police.
Article updated on 28 August to reflect HSL's decision reversal.
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