Finnish Legislation · Legal Reference

The Constitution of Finland (731/1999): Legal Protection and Fundamental Rights

An overview of constitutional safeguards relevant to legal proceedings in Finland, including equality, personal liberty, access to justice and the duty to observe the law.

Section 6 — Equality

Section 6 guarantees equality before the law and prohibits unjustified differential treatment. In criminal proceedings, it provides a constitutional frame for equal treatment and procedural fairness.

Section 7 — Personal liberty and integrity

The Constitution protects life, personal liberty, integrity and security. Restrictions on these interests require a lawful basis and must be assessed within the applicable legal framework.

Section 21 — Legal protection

Section 21 guarantees everyone the right to have their case dealt with appropriately and without undue delay by a legally competent court or authority. It addresses fair-trial guarantees, publicity, the right to be heard, reasoned decisions and appeal.

Section 22 — Safeguarding fundamental rights

Public authorities must guarantee the observance of basic rights and liberties and human rights. This duty operates alongside the more specific rules governing investigation and trial.

Question for procedural review

How were the constitutional guarantees of legal protection, equality and reasoned judicial decision-making reflected in the handling and determination of the proceedings?

Primary Source

Official Finlex statute page and available translation:

Read the statute on Finlex

English translations may be unofficial or reflect amendments only up to the date stated on Finlex. The authoritative Finnish or Swedish text and applicable version prevail.