Ministry of Justice (Finland)

The Ministry of Justice (Finland) (Finnish: Oikeusministeriö, Swedish: Justitieministeriet) is one of the twelve ministries which comprise the Finnish Government. It is responsible for the preparation of legislation in the fields of constitutional law, criminal law, procedural law, enforcement law, and administrative law.

Its core functions include ensuring the rule of law, safeguarding fundamental rights, promoting democracy, and maintaining legal order. The Ministry drafts laws, monitors their implementation, and develops the legal system. It also oversees elections and referendums.

Key areas of responsibility include:

• Legislation: Preparing and implementing laws in the aforementioned fields.
• Judicial Administration: Developing and supporting the functioning of the courts and prosecution service.
• Criminal Justice: Developing and implementing policies related to crime prevention, punishment, and rehabilitation.
• Enforcement: Overseeing the enforcement of judgments and debts.
• Democracy and Elections: Ensuring the smooth conduct of elections and referendums and promoting democratic participation.
• Fundamental Rights: Safeguarding and promoting fundamental rights as enshrined in the Constitution.

The Ministry is headed by the Minister of Justice, a member of the Finnish Government. The administrative head of the Ministry is the Permanent Secretary.