Hallintovalta

Hallintovalta, or administrative power, refers to the authority within a state to plan, implement, and enforce public policy and to manage public affairs through the public administration. It is exercised by the government and by the state’s civil service, including ministries, agencies, local authorities and other public bodies that issue administrative decisions, regulate conduct, grant licenses, provide services, and supervise compliance with laws.

In constitutional systems it is distinct from legislative power (which makes laws) and judicial power (which interprets and applies law in disputes). The hallintovalta operates within the framework of the constitution, laws, and the judiciary; administrative acts must respect rights and are subject to review and appeal; where necessary, independent supervisory bodies oversee legality and fairness.

In Finland and many democracies, hallintovalta is divided between central administration and local self-government; local authorities implement services and decisions at municipal level. Administrative procedure governs how decisions are prepared, reasoned, and communicated; openness and accountability are emphasized to avoid abuse of power and to ensure proportionality and non-discrimination.

Challenges include bureaucratic inertia, complexity of regulation, and balancing efficiency with rights protections. Reforms often focus on digitalization, streamlined procedures, and stronger oversight.