Arkistointisäädäntö

Arkistointisäädäntö refers to the body of laws and regulations governing the creation, management, preservation, and disposal of records in Finland. This legislation ensures that official documents and historical records are maintained in a systematic and accessible manner, safeguarding public information and cultural heritage.

The primary legislation in this area is the Archives Act (Arkistolaki) and the Decree on Archives (Arkistodirektiivi). These laws outline the responsibilities of various public entities, including state agencies, municipalities, and other public institutions, in managing their archival materials. They dictate requirements for the classification, appraisal, and transfer of records to national and regional archives.

Key aspects of arkistointisäädäntö include provisions for the long-term preservation of documents deemed to have enduring historical, administrative, or legal value. This involves ensuring the physical and digital integrity of records and making them available for research and public access, subject to legal restrictions concerning privacy and national security. The legislation also addresses the destruction of records that have lost their value, establishing procedures for their secure and authorized disposal.

Furthermore, arkistointisäädäntö plays a role in the digital transition, addressing the challenges of managing electronic records and ensuring their authenticity and long-term usability. The National Archives of Finland (Kansallisarkisto) is the central authority responsible for overseeing the implementation of these regulations and providing guidance to public archives and record creators.