Salassuuden

Salassuuden is the Finnish term for confidentiality or secrecy in information handling. The word is used to describe the obligation to keep information private and not disclose it to unauthorized persons. In Finnish contexts, salassuus is a fundamental principle in law, professional ethics, and privacy protection. The form salassuuden is the genitive case used in phrases such as "salassuuden vaatimus" (the obligation of confidentiality).

Legal basis and scope: Salassuuden obligations arise from statutory provisions, professional codes of ethics, and contractual agreements. They apply to personal data, client information, corporate secrets, and state secrets, depending on the context. Examples include medical confidentiality by healthcare professionals, financial sector secrecy, and legal professional privilege; journalists may have specific protections but also duties to protect sources within the bounds of the law.

Exceptions: Disclosures may be allowed with consent, when required by law or court order, or when there is a compelling public interest or risk to life or safety.

Enforcement and impact: Breaches of salassuuden can lead to criminal liability or professional sanctions, and may also entail civil liability for damages. The concept underscores trust in professional and institutional relationships and is a key element in privacy regimes and regulatory compliance.

Relation to data protection: Data protection laws regulate the handling of personal data, while confidentiality rules focus on the protection of sensitive information beyond what is strictly required by data protection alone, together supporting privacy and responsible information management.

See also confidentiality, professional secrecy, data protection, privacy.