PeVL 25/2017 Vp.pdf

The Finnish Parliament's Constitutional Law Committee has issued a statement (PeVL 25/2017 vp) on the Government's proposal (HE 56/2017 vp) to amend the Border Guard Act and the Criminal Code. The proposal aims to strengthen Finland's territorial integrity and security by enabling the authorities to prevent and respond to threats from unidentified military groups. The Committee has assessed the proposal in light of the Constitution, particularly with regard to the principles of the rule of law, the protection of fundamental rights, and the division of powers between authorities. The Committee concludes that the proposal is constitutionally significant, especially regarding the regulation of powers and the criminal law consequences. The Committee finds that the proposed regulation is necessary and proportionate to the threat, and that it does not infringe on fundamental rights. The Committee also notes that the proposal does not create new powers for the authorities, but rather clarifies and specifies the existing powers. The Committee recommends that the proposal be approved.