Kansalaisaloitejärjestelmä

Kansalaisaloitejärjestelmä refers to the system in Finland that allows citizens to initiate parliamentary proposals. This system, established by the Finnish Constitution and regulated by specific laws, empowers citizens to collectively propose new laws or amendments to existing ones. To be considered by the Parliament of Finland (Eduskunta), a citizens' initiative must gather at least 50,000 valid supporter signatures within a six-month period.

The process begins with a proposal submitted to the Ministry of Justice, which then reviews it for legality. Once approved, the initiative is made public, and signature collection can commence. Signatures can be gathered both electronically through the official online platform and physically. Upon reaching the required threshold, the initiative is forwarded to the Parliament. The Parliament then assigns the initiative to the relevant committee for examination. The committee will consider the proposal and may hold hearings. Ultimately, the Parliament votes on the initiative. If the Parliament approves the proposal, it becomes law. If it rejects it, the process ends. The kansalaisaloitejärjestelmä aims to increase citizen participation in the legislative process and provide a direct channel for public input into lawmaking.