Democracy & political participation in Finland
Democracy in Finland is based on the active participation of citizens. Through elections, political parties, civic initiatives, and fundamental freedoms, people influence political decision-making at local, national, and European levels.
Representative democracy
Finland is a representative democracy. Citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, particularly through parliamentary, presidential, municipal, and European Parliament elections.
These elections form the core of political participation and determine how power is exercised in society.
Political participation beyond elections
Democracy in Finland extends beyond voting. Citizens can engage in political life through political parties, public debate, civic activism, and citizens’ initiatives.
These forms of participation strengthen public discussion and ensure that diverse views are heard.
Local, national, and European levels
Political participation takes place at multiple levels. Municipal elections influence local decision-making, parliamentary and presidential elections shape national politics, and European Parliament elections connect Finland to EU democracy.
Fundamental freedoms
Freedom of expression and other fundamental rights make democratic participation possible. Open discussion, access to information, and lawful protest are essential elements of democracy.
Articles in this section
- Voting rights and elections in Finland
- How parliamentary elections work
- Presidential elections in Finland
- Municipal elections and local democracy
- European Parliament elections and Finland
- Political parties in Finland
- Citizens’ initiatives and referendums
- Freedom of expression and political participation