hallintovaltaa

Hallintovalta, or administrative power, is a concept in Finnish constitutional and administrative law referring to the authority of public authorities to implement laws, make and enforce decisions, and provide public services. It encompasses central state ministries, other government bodies, and local government authorities such as municipalities and joint municipal authorities. Hallintovalta operates alongside legislative power (lainsäädäntövalta) and judicial power (oikeudenkäyttö). The legal framework for hallintovalta is primarily found in the Finnish Constitution and in administrative legislation, notably the Administrative Procedure Act, which governs how decisions are prepared, justified, and made.

The scope of hallintovalta covers issuing permits and licenses, applying regulations, enforcing laws, administering benefits and services, collecting taxes and fees, and exercising regulatory powers in fields such as environment, health, and public safety. Decisions can be subject to administrative appeals and, in many cases, legal review by administrative courts and the Supreme Administrative Court, with oversight by constitutional watchdogs such as the Chancellor of Justice and the Parliamentary Ombudsman.

In principle, hallintovalta must be exercised with legality, impartiality, proportionality, and reasons, and individuals generally have the right to access information and to appeal decisions. The concept serves to ensure efficient and uniform administration while protecting fundamental rights. The term is primarily used in Finnish legal and governmental contexts and is typically translated as "administrative power" or "administrative authority" in English-language texts.