valtuutetun

Valtuutettu is a Finnish term with two main meanings. In legal and administrative usage it designates a person who has been given authority to act on behalf of another person or organization, through a valtuutus (power of attorney or authorization). The valtuutetun duties and scope are defined by the instrument of authorization and applicable law; the bearer can perform specified acts, sign documents, or make decisions within agreed limits. The authorization can be general or task-specific and is typically revocable by the grantor. If the valtuutetun acts beyond the granted authority or mishandles entrusted duties, liability and consequences may arise for the person who issued the valtuutus and, in some cases, for the valtuutettu themselves.

In political and public administration contexts, valtuutettu refers to a representative or member of a decision-making body, most commonly a kunnanvaltuusto (municipal council) or other local or regional council. Valtuutetut are elected by residents and are responsible for deliberating and deciding on local matters, such as budgets, zoning, and services. Their mandate lasts for a fixed term, typically four years in Finland, and they may propose motions, participate in committee work, and vote on council decisions. The term highlights the representative function rather than a personal authority relationship.

Etymologically, valtuutta means authorization or empowerment, and valtuutettu signifies the empowered person. The term thus encompasses both the fiduciary role of a proxy or agent and the elected representative role in local governance, depending on the context.