Huostaanoton

Huostaanotto is a Finnish term describing the act of taking a child into state or municipal care when the child’s safety or well-being is at risk and the parents or guardians cannot provide adequate care. It is governed by the Finnish Child Welfare Act (lastensuojelulaki) and related child protection provisions. In practice, decisions are made by municipal social welfare authorities, and in urgent situations a temporary placement can be arranged promptly, with further review and a longer-term plan pursued.

There are two main forms of huostaanotto: tilapäinen huostaanotto, or temporary emergency placement, used to rapidly remove the child from immediate danger; and pitkäaikainen huostaanotto, a long-term placement that requires a formal decision and is subject to periodic review. Placements may be in foster care (perhehoito) with a foster family or in residential or institutional care if the child’s needs require it.

During huostaanotto, a care plan (sijoitus) is prepared that outlines the goals, required supports, and arrangements for contact with the biological family. The child has rights within the process, including the right to be heard and to receive information in a language they understand. Decisions are reviewed to assess progress, with the overarching aim of safeguarding the child and pursuing reunification with the family when conditions permit, or, if reunification is not possible, to ensure a stable alternative arrangement.

Critics point to the impact of removal from home and emphasize the importance of high-quality support, monitoring, and timely planning for the child’s best interests.