poikkeamarajan

Poikkeamarajan, also known as the "Exceptional State," is a concept in Finnish political science that refers to a period of extraordinary political power exercised by the government, often in response to a crisis or emergency situation. The term was popularized by political scientist Jussi Hanhimäki in his 1999 book "Poikkeamarajan politiikka" (Politics of the Exceptional State).

The concept of poikkeamarajan is rooted in the Finnish political tradition, which emphasizes the importance of a strong and centralized government, particularly during times of crisis. It is often invoked in situations where the normal democratic processes may be deemed insufficient or ineffective, such as in the face of a natural disaster, economic crisis, or security threat.

During a poikkeamarajan, the government may exercise powers that are typically reserved for the legislature or judiciary, such as the ability to make laws, regulate the economy, or suspend civil liberties. However, the duration and scope of these powers are usually limited and subject to strict oversight to prevent the abuse of power.

The concept of poikkeamarajan has been a subject of debate among Finnish political scientists and policymakers, with some arguing that it is a necessary tool for managing crises and ensuring the stability of the state, while others view it as a potential threat to democratic principles and the rule of law. Despite these debates, the concept remains an important part of the Finnish political discourse, particularly in the context of the country's history of crisis management and resilience.