Oikeellisuudella

Oikeellisuudella is a Finnish term that denotes action or state carried out in accordance with the law. The root word oikeellisuus means legality or lawfulness, and the adessive form oikeellisuudella is used to describe the manner or basis on which something is done, i.e., with legality.

In Finnish public administration and law, oikeellisuudella expresses the principle that decisions and actions must be legally grounded. This includes having a valid legal basis, proper authority, and adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and constitutional norms. Oikeellisuudella also covers procedural correctness, such as following required procedures, ensuring transparency, and providing justification for decisions.

The concept is closely linked to, yet distinct from, other evaluative notions such as fairness or legitimacy. While legitimacy concerns acceptance and support among the public and stakeholders, oikeellisuus focuses on compliance with the law and proper legal authority. In constitutional and administrative contexts, the principle of legality (oikeellisuusperiaate) underpins the lawful exercise of public power and acts as a check on arbitrary or unauthorized action.

Common areas where oikeellisuudella is invoked include administrative decisions, public procurement, taxation, and the judicial process, where authorities must demonstrate a legal basis and proper procedure for their actions. In practice, assessments of legality examine whether acts are authorised, proportionate, and supported by relevant legal norms.

See also: oikeus, laki, oikeusperiaatteet, hallinnon oikeellisuus, perustuslaki.