National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights

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What Action Plan?

The Constitutional Law Committee of the Parliament has considered that for the systematic promotion of the fulfilment of fundamental and human rights it is necessary that a National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights is drafted for each government term. 

The objective of the National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights is to promote the obligation of the public authority to guarantee the observance of basic rights and liberties and human rights as stipulated in Section 22 of the Constitution.

The measures taken under the Action Plan are designed to act on identified problems with fundamental and human rights and to complement the work being carried out in various policy sectors to promote fundamental and human rights.

The first National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights was adopted for years 2012-2013. The newest, and third, Action Plan was adopted by the Government decision in principle in June 2021 for the years 2020-2023. 

The legal basis of the Action Plan

The legal basis of the Action Plan is constituted by:

  • the basic rights and liberties guaranteed in the Constitution
  • the international and regional human rights treaties ratified by Finland
  • the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

Preparations for the Action Plan

In preparing the Action Plan, particular note has been taken of:

  • the Government's Human Rights Report’s policies
  • the recommendations to Finland from international treaty monitoring bodies
  • the Government Programme’s policies
  • the views of the overseers of legality and the special ombudsmen
  • the areas of concern raised by non-governmental organisations.