kotirauhan

Kotirauha, or domestic peace, is a Finnish legal concept that protects the inviolability of the home and the privacy of people living in it. It encapsulates the expectation that a dwelling and its immediate surroundings be free from unwanted entry, disturbance, or surveillance without consent or a justified reason.

It covers acts that intrude on the private sphere, such as entering a dwelling without permission, remaining there after consent has been withdrawn, or engaging in stalking, harassment, or other disturbances directed at the inhabitants inside the home. The protection extends to associated spaces such as yards or courtyards in certain circumstances, and it aims to shield residents from acts that threaten safety or privacy within their residence.

The concept is part of Finnish criminal law. Violations are punishable as kotirauhan rikkominen and can lead to sanctions ranging from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity and circumstances. The law reflects a general protection of privacy and domestic security and complements broader constitutional and data-protection rights.

Enforcement involves police intervention and, where appropriate, criminal proceedings in court. Victims should report incidents promptly; case evidence may include testimonies, recordings, or other documentation. The concept is also connected to civil remedies, such as restraining orders, and to the broader framework of privacy rights in Finnish law.