Voting Rights and Elections in Finland
Voting is one of the most important civic rights in Finland. Through elections, citizens influence political decisions, choose their representatives, and shape the direction of the country. Understanding how voting works is essential for participating fully in Finnish democracy.
The right to vote
In Finland, the right to vote is guaranteed by law. Finnish citizens who are at least 18 years old have the right to vote in national elections, including parliamentary and presidential elections.
In some elections, such as municipal elections, certain non-citizens who permanently reside in Finland may also have voting rights.
Types of elections in Finland
Finland holds several types of elections. Parliamentary elections determine the members of Parliament, while presidential elections choose the President of the Republic.
Municipal elections select local councillors, and European Parliament elections allow Finnish voters to elect representatives to the European Parliament.
How elections are organised
Elections in Finland are organised by public authorities and are conducted according to clear legal rules. Voting is secret, free, and fair.
Voters may cast their ballot either on election day or during advance voting, which is widely available across the country and abroad.
Why voting matters
Voting allows citizens to influence laws, public policies, and the composition of decision-making bodies. High voter participation strengthens democratic legitimacy and public trust in institutions.
Even when individual votes seem small, collective participation shapes the future of society.
Why this matters for future citizens
Voting is both a right and a responsibility. By participating in elections, future citizens contribute to Finland’s democratic tradition and help ensure that public decisions reflect the will of the people.