European Parliament elections and Finland
European Parliament elections allow citizens of EU member states to elect representatives to the European Parliament. Finland has participated in these elections since joining the European Union.
The European Parliament
The European Parliament is one of the main legislative institutions of the European Union. It represents the citizens of EU member states and participates in making EU laws together with the Council of the EU.
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) represent voters at the European level rather than individual national governments.
Finland’s representation in the European Parliament
Finland elects a fixed number of Members of the European Parliament. The number of seats allocated to each member state depends mainly on population size.
Finnish MEPs work in political groups within the Parliament rather than forming national delegations.
Who can vote in European Parliament elections
European Parliament elections are held every five years. Finnish citizens who are eligible to vote have the right to participate.
Citizens of other EU countries living in Finland may also vote in European Parliament elections, provided they register appropriately.
Why European Parliament elections matter
Decisions made at the European level affect many aspects of life in Finland, including trade, environmental policy, consumer protection, and citizens’ rights.
Voting in European Parliament elections allows citizens to influence EU legislation and democratic decision-making beyond the national level.
European elections and democracy
European Parliament elections connect national democracies to the decision-making process of the European Union. Participation helps strengthen democratic legitimacy at the European level.
Understanding how these elections work clarifies Finland’s role within the European Union.