Julkisuusperiaatteet

Julkisuusperiaatteet refers to the principles of publicity and openness in public administration and decision-making, particularly prevalent in Finnish law. These principles dictate that public authorities should conduct their business openly and that citizens have the right to access information and participate in public processes. The core idea is to ensure transparency and accountability of government actions.

This principle is enshrined in the Finnish Constitution and various laws, most notably the Act on the Openness of Government Activities. It guarantees the right of access to public documents, with certain legally defined exceptions for matters like national security, privacy, or ongoing investigations. The principle also extends to public hearings and meetings, allowing citizens to observe and understand how decisions are made.

The objectives of julkisuusperiaatteet are manifold. They aim to promote public trust in authorities, enable informed public discourse and participation, and prevent corruption or abuse of power. By making information accessible, citizens can better understand the rationale behind governmental decisions and hold their representatives accountable. While exceptions exist to protect legitimate interests, the overarching presumption is towards openness, making it a cornerstone of Finnish democratic governance.