International and EU affairs

The EU-related activities and international cooperation conducted by the Ministry of Justice aim to maintain an open, active and safe society where people can be confident that their rights are being respected. The effective protection of these rights calls for international cooperation. The ever increasing amount of cross-border activities of individuals and businesses results in a growing need for commonly agreed rules that can be applied in the development of concrete solutions to cross-border issues.

Promotion of democracy and human rights, support for a stable rule of law, fight against international crime and terrorism, and anti-corruption activities are the cornerstones of the international activities of the Ministry of Justice. This work is guided by the Ministry of Justice’s Policy for International and EU Activities and the Action Plan for the 2019–2023 Parliamentary Term.

Russian invasion of Ukraine

On 24 February, Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine. Finland strongly condemns Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and supports Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, self-determination and territorial integrity.

The Ministry of Justice is monitoring the situation closely and continues to take measures within its own areas of responsibility, including judicial cooperation in criminal matters with Russia and Belarus, child law matters, international law, combating trafficking in human beings, sanctions-related investigative measures in enforcement, and combating discrimination and racism.

More information on invasion on the Government's web pages 

  • Nordic cooperation »

    Judicial cooperation supports the Nordic countries in advancing the common basic principles laid down in Nordic legislation in accordance with the shared Nordic values.

  • Justice affairs in the EU »

    The EU-related activities and international cooperation conducted by the Ministry of Justice aim to maintain an open, active and safe society where people can be confident that their rights are being respected.

  • International cooperation »

    The Ministry of Justice aims to promote a stable rule of law in Finland and especially in its neighbouring areas.