yhteiskuntarauhan

Yhteiskuntarauha, literally public or social peace, is a concept used in Finnish sociological, political, and legal contexts to describe the absence of disturbances that threaten the safety, security, and orderly functioning of society. In everyday language it refers to the general calm in public life, where people can move, express themselves, and participate in communal activities without fear of violence or coercion. In legal terms, yhteiskuntarauha is closely linked to the protection of public order and safety.

In Finnish law the term commonly appears in phrases such as yhteiskuntarauhan loukkaaminen (breach of the public peace) and yhteiskuntarauhan rikkominen (disturbance of the public peace). These offenses are part of the penal framework governing behavior that threatens or disrupts public order. Acts that can fall under this category include threats, coercion, incitement to violence, harassment, and significant disruptions of public gatherings or events. The penalties depend on the seriousness of the act and its consequences, and the law seeks to balance public order with the fundamental right to freedom of expression and assembly.

Enforcement of yhteiskuntarauha involves police measures, judicial proceedings, and public policy aimed at preventing violence, rioting, and other disturbances. The concept also adapts to evolving social conditions, such as new forms of communication and organized demonstrations, while remaining a foundational element of public order in Finnish legal and administrative practice.