yleispalveluvelvoitteen

Yleispalveluvelvoitteen, also known as the public service obligation, is a legal concept in Finland that requires companies to contribute to the public good. This obligation is rooted in the Finnish Constitution and is designed to ensure that businesses do not solely pursue profit at the expense of societal well-being. The concept is particularly relevant in the context of media and telecommunications, where it aims to prevent the dominance of a few large corporations that could stifle competition and innovation.

The public service obligation is enforced through various regulations and laws. For instance, the Finnish Communications Regulatory Authority (FICORA) oversees the telecommunications sector, ensuring that companies provide essential services to all citizens and that no single company has a monopoly. Similarly, the Finnish Audiovisual Authority (FIAU) regulates the media sector, promoting diversity and preventing the concentration of media ownership.

The obligation is not limited to the media and telecommunications sectors. It extends to other areas where companies have significant influence, such as energy and transportation. The goal is to ensure that companies contribute to the common good, promoting competition, innovation, and social welfare.

The public service obligation is a fundamental aspect of Finnish society, reflecting the country's commitment to a balanced and inclusive economy. It ensures that businesses are accountable to the public and that their activities benefit society as a whole.