saamelaiskäräjistä

The Saamelaiskäräjät, or Sámi Parliament, is the highest representative body of the Sámi people in Finland. It is an autonomous public corporation whose tasks are defined by law. The Saamelaiskäräjät is responsible for promoting Sámi self-determination, protecting the Sámi language and culture, and safeguarding the rights of the Sámi as an indigenous people.

Elections for the Saamelaiskäräjät are held every four years. All Sámi individuals who are registered as Sámi in Finland are eligible to vote and stand as candidates. The Parliament consists of twenty-one members and four deputy members. It convenes at least twice a year, and its decisions are made by a majority vote.

The Saamelaiskäräjät's activities are funded by the Finnish state, with additional funding from other sources. Its primary duties include issuing opinions on matters concerning the Sámi, developing Sámi education and cultural services, and promoting Sámi-language media. The Parliament also represents the Sámi people in international forums and engages in dialogue with Finnish authorities to ensure Sámi rights are respected. The Saamelaiskäräjät plays a crucial role in preserving and developing the unique cultural heritage of the Sámi in Finland.