Democracy and participation

Under the Constitution, the powers of the State in Finland are vested in the people, who are represented by the Parliament. Democracy entails the right of the individual to participate in and influence the development of society and his or her living conditions. The Ministry of Justice promotes and monitors the realisation of these participation rights.        

The Constitution and several other statutes oblige authorities to act in an open and transparent manner. The law requires that citizens be given an opportunity to influence decision-making concerning themselves. The electronic democracy services of the Ministry of Justice provide citizens with opportunities and channels for participation and exerting influence.

The Ministry of Justice also supports and advises other authorities in questions concerning the consultation stage of the law drafting process. Furthermore, the Ministry promotes and monitors the general prerequisites for civic participation. One of the responsibilities of the Ministry of Justice is to coordinate voluntary activities and to create favourable conditions for voluntary work at government level.