erihoito

Erihoito is a Finnish term meaning differentiated or tailored treatment. It refers to situations where individuals or groups receive different treatment based on stated criteria. The concept is used across sectors such as law, public policy, education, and health care, and it can describe both justified, targeted support and, in some cases, potentially unfair discrimination depending on how the criteria are chosen and applied.

In legal and ethical discussions, erihoito is weighed against principles of equality and nondiscrimination. A valid erihoito typically requires a legitimate aim, a reasonable relationship between means and ends, and proportionality, with safeguards to prevent abuse. Transparency, oversight, and opportunities for review are commonly discussed requirements.

In health care and social services, erihoito may appear as tailored care plans, triage decisions, or resource allocation that prioritize individuals with greater need or higher potential benefit from an intervention. In education or employment, it can take the form of accommodations or targeted support programs aimed at enabling participation or reducing disadvantage.

Critics argue that differentiating treatment can lead to stigmatization or unequal outcomes if not properly justified and monitored. Proponents contend that in some cases, targeted actions are necessary to achieve overall fairness or to address past or present inequalities.

See also: equality, nondiscrimination, proportionality, targeted programs, inclusive policy.