Vaalioikeus

Vaalioikeus, in Finnish, refers to the legal right to participate in elections. It covers the right to vote (äänioikeus) and, for most offices, the right to stand as a candidate (vaalikelpoisuus). The framework is laid down in the Finnish Constitution and the Elections Act and applies to elections to the Parliament, municipal councils, the European Parliament, and referendums.

Who has vaalioikeus depends on the type of election. In parliamentary elections, Finnish citizenship and at least 18 years of age on election day are typically required. In municipal elections, Finnish citizens and other residents who are 18 and registered in the population register typically have the right to vote. In elections to the European Parliament, EU citizens residing in Finland may vote. The right to be elected (vaalikelpoisuus) normally requires citizenship and 18 years of age, with possible additional qualifications; certain individuals may be disqualified by law, such as those deemed legally incapable or those serving certain sentences.

Historically, Finland introduced universal suffrage and full political rights in 1906, making it one of the first countries to grant women the right to vote and to stand for election. Since then vaalioikeus has been shaped by constitutional and electoral legislation aimed at broad participation while safeguarding electoral integrity.

In practice, vaalioikeus defines who may participate as voters and candidates, and its specifics are regularly updated by Finnish election law to reflect changes in citizenship, residence, and civic status.