Kustaa Rafael Paasio, born Hellström (6 June 1903 – 17 March 1980) was a prominent Finnish politician and editor from Social Democratic Party.

[2] Paasio was born in Uskela and was in contact with the Social Democratic Labor movement at an early age.

Social Democrats remember Rafael Paasio, above all, as party unifier and strengthener.

In addition, the party reached decent relations with Soviet Union during his term.

His first cabinet began building the modern Finnish welfare state, and the second government laid the foundation for Finland's EEC agreement.