Turvapaikalle

Turvapaikalle is a Finnish term that translates to "to a place of safety" or "to asylum." It refers to the process of seeking and being granted protection in a country other than one's own, typically due to persecution or serious harm. The concept is rooted in international humanitarian law, primarily the Geneva Conventions and the 1951 Refugee Convention, which define who qualifies for asylum and outline the rights and protections they are entitled to.

Individuals seeking turvapaikalle are often referred to as asylum seekers. They apply for protection in a country where they believe they will be safe from persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. The process involves submitting an application to the relevant authorities in the host country, followed by an interview and a decision on the application. If granted, the individual receives a form of protection, which can range from subsidiary protection to full refugee status, granting them the right to reside in the country, access to services, and protection against forced return to their country of origin. The criteria and procedures for granting turvapaikalle vary significantly between countries, though they are generally guided by international agreements.