Perustuslainvalvonta

Perustuslainvalvonta is a Finnish term referring to the system of constitutional oversight in Finland. It encompasses the procedures and institutions that ensure laws, government actions, and official decisions comply with the Finnish Constitution (perustuslaki) and protect fundamental rights. Finland does not have a single dedicated constitutional court; oversight is distributed among Parliament, independent ombudsmen, and the courts.

The key actors are:

- Perustuslakivaliokunta, the Constitutional Law Committee of the Eduskunta (Parliament). It conducts pre-legislative constitutional review of bills and international treaties, issues statements (lausunto) on constitutionality, and can propose amendments to ensure compliance with the constitution. Its opinions guide the legislative process.

- Oikeuskansleri, the Chancellor of Justice. This independent official supervises the legality of government actions and the administration, monitors compliance with the law and constitutional rights, and can refer matters to Parliament or the courts if necessary.

- Eduskunnan oikeusasiamies, the Parliamentary Ombudsman. It handles citizens’ complaints about authorities’ decisions and actions, and oversees proper application of laws by public authorities.

- The courts, notably the Supreme Court (korkein oikeus) and the Supreme Administrative Court (korkein hallinto-oikeus). While Finland lacks a general constitutional court, constitutional questions can be raised and adjudicated in ordinary courts or through the ombudsmen’s processes and parliamentary procedures.

Process and impact:

During legislation, the Constitutional Law Committee assesses constitutional compatibility and can influence amendments. If a law or government act is challenged, the Chancellor of Justice or the Parliamentary Ombudsman may investigate and, if needed, bring issues to the courts. The system aims to safeguard constitutional rights, maintain the rule of law, and support checks and balances in governance.