Väestötietojärjestelmästä

Väestötietojärjestelmä, often translated as the Population Information System, is a comprehensive digital register maintained by the Finnish Digital and Population Data Services Agency (Digi- ja väestötietovirasto). Its primary purpose is to collect, store, and manage information about all individuals residing in Finland, as well as Finnish citizens living abroad. This system is fundamental to the functioning of Finnish society and public administration.

The system contains essential personal data, including names, personal identity codes, addresses, family relationships, and citizenship. It also records information related to civil and legal status, such as marriages, divorces, births, and deaths. The data within the väestötietojärjestelmä is used by numerous authorities for various purposes, including taxation, healthcare, social services, elections, and law enforcement.

Access to and the use of the Population Information System are strictly regulated by law to ensure data privacy and security. Individuals have the right to access their own information and to request corrections if inaccuracies are found. The system is continuously updated, with information being entered and modified by authorized bodies. It plays a crucial role in maintaining an accurate and up-to-date demographic record for Finland.