Finland Military Approves Long Hair and Earrings for Men

Finland's Defence Forces are introducing new appearance rules that will allow male service members to wear long hair and earrings, marking one of the biggest updates to military regulations in recent years.

Starting in July, men will be allowed to keep long hair as long as it is tied neatly and does not cover the eyes, ears or neck. The change brings the same hair rules for both men and women, making the military's appearance standards more equal.

The updated rules will also allow small and discreet earrings under gender-neutral guidelines. Previously, limited exceptions for earrings mainly applied to women.

Despite the changes, the military will continue to ban extreme hairstyles, brightly coloured hair and facial hair unless there is a special approved reason.

The Defence Forces say the reforms are part of a broader effort to improve equality and modernise military service. New guidelines also provide clearer rules for preventing bullying, harassment and other inappropriate behaviour among personnel.

While appearance rules are becoming more flexible, military officials stress that discipline, professionalism and operational readiness will remain unchanged.

The new regulations will take effect before Finland's next group of conscripts begins military service on 6 July.