Alaikäinen

Alaikäinen is the Finnish term for a person who is legally a minor, i.e., someone under the age of majority. In Finland, the age of majority is 18.

Alaikäiset have limited legal capacity. Their acts may require parental consent or guardianship; the law provides protections to ensure their welfare and development. For many everyday matters, minors can act with appropriate support, while more significant decisions—such as entering into binding contracts or placing themselves at risk—typically require the involvement or authorization of a parent or guardian.

Minors enjoy specific rights and protections. They are protected against exploitation, abuse, and neglect, and have rights related to education, health, privacy, and safe environments. The state and municipalities may intervene when a minor's welfare is at stake, and systems focused on juvenile welfare and justice apply to younger people.

Criminal responsibility in Finland begins at 15, and individuals under 18 are generally handled within juvenile-justice procedures designed to focus on rehabilitation and welfare rather than punishment, although there can be sanctions appropriate to age and circumstances.

The concept of alaikäinen is common across many legal systems, but the exact age thresholds and rules vary by country. In Finland, the term emphasizes the transition from child protection to adult rights and responsibilities that comes with turning 18.