lausuntokierrokselle

Lausuntokierros, often translated as a "consultation round" or "public comment period," is a crucial part of the legislative and administrative process in Finland. It refers to a stage where a draft of a proposed law, regulation, or policy is made available to relevant stakeholders and the general public for their feedback and comments. This process is designed to ensure transparency, gather diverse perspectives, and improve the quality and practicality of the proposed measures before they are finalized.

During a lausuntokierros, government ministries, agencies, or municipalities typically publish the draft document online, along with instructions on how and by when to submit feedback. The recipients of these draft documents can include other government bodies, professional organizations, NGOs, research institutions, businesses, and individual citizens. The feedback received is then analyzed, and it can lead to revisions of the original proposal.

The length of a lausuntokierros can vary depending on the complexity and significance of the matter, but it is usually a defined period, often several weeks. This mechanism is a cornerstone of participatory governance in Finland, allowing for informed decision-making by incorporating the views of those who will be affected by the proposed legislation or policy. It serves as a formal channel for dialogue between the authorities and the society.