Rajavalvonnan

Rajavalvonta is a Finnish term that translates to border control or border surveillance. It refers to the activities undertaken by state authorities to monitor and control the movement of people and goods across national borders. In Finland, the primary responsibility for border control lies with the Finnish Border Guard (Rajavartiolaitos).

The objectives of Rajavalvonta include preventing illegal entry and exit, combating cross-border crime such as smuggling and human trafficking, and ensuring national security. It also involves checking travel documents, facilitating legitimate travel, and collecting customs and immigration data. Finnish border control operates along Finland's extensive land and sea borders, including its eastern border with Russia and its maritime border with Sweden and Estonia.

Rajavalvonta employs a range of methods and technologies, including patrols, surveillance aircraft, patrol vessels, and advanced detection systems. Personnel engaged in border surveillance are trained to handle various situations, from routine document checks to responding to security threats. Cooperation with neighboring countries and international organizations is also a key aspect of modern border control efforts, ensuring a coordinated approach to managing shared borders and addressing transnational challenges. The implementation of Rajavalvonta is governed by Finnish law and international agreements.