Lausuntokierroksiin

Lausuntokierroksiin is a term used in Finnish public administration to describe a formal stage in the policy- or law-making process where a draft proposal is circulated to relevant authorities, experts, and stakeholders for written statements or comments. The purpose is to gather specialized input, assess potential legal, financial, social, and practical impacts, and ensure that diverse perspectives are considered before a final decision is made.

The lausuntokierros typically takes place after the initial drafting of a bill, decree, or regulatory proposal and before the proposal is finalized. Participants can include government ministries and agencies, local authorities, professional bodies, businesses, interest groups, research institutions, and other stakeholders. Submissions usually address issues such as legality, constitutional compatibility, budgetary effects, administrative feasibility, and societal consequences. The procedure helps identify unforeseen problems and allows proponents to refine the proposal accordingly.

Responses are collected within a defined deadline and compiled into a report or memorandum that accompanies the drafting process. The agency or ministry responsible for the proposal analyzes the comments and may revise the text or add clarifications. In many cases, summaries of the received statements are published to promote transparency, though the final text does not necessarily incorporate every comment.

Etymology and usage: The term combines lausunto (statement or opinion) with kierros (round), and the suffix -ksiin indicates movement toward or participation in the round. Lausuntokierroksiin is commonly used to describe participatory steps in administrative procedures, legislative drafting, and regulatory work, reflecting Finland’s emphasis on consulting affected actors and ensuring informed decision-making.