According to Finnish law, everyone is entitled to be treated equally. Discrimination is a crime.

Information on where to get help, if you have experienced discrimination or fallen victim to a racist crime, is available here Discrimination and racism.

Rights of sexual and gender minorities

Finnish law states that a people must not be discriminated against based on sexual orientation. The law also prohibits discrimination based on gender identity or expression.

You can apply for asylum in Finland if you have experienced oppression elsewhere due to sexual orientation or gender identity. However, gaining asylum is not a given and every applicant’s case is investigated. The investigation examines the situation of the applicant and his/her country of origin as thoroughly as possible.

Finland has many organisations for sexual and gender minorities. They aim to improve the status of these minorities in society. Many organisations also provide training, advice and various support services.

Transgender persons, transvestites, intergender persons and other gender diverse people can receive help from the Ombudsman for Equality if they are experiencing discrimination.

In Finland, two men or two women can also get married.

More information on marriage is available here Marriage.

More information on families of same-sex couples is available here What is a family ?

Children’s rights

In Finland, children have the right to special protection and care. Children are also entitled to present their opinions. Children have the right to have their opinion taken into account when decisions regarding them are being made. According to Finnish law, corporal punishment of children is prohibited and can lead to a penalty.

More information on children’s rights is available here Children.

Rights of disabled people

Finnish law states that a disabled person must not be discriminated against. A disabled person has the right to live a normal life, for example, to study, work and start a family. According to the Non-Discrimination Act, employers and organisers of education must improve the possibilities for disabled people to find employment and education. For example, a working environment can be changed in such a way that makes it more accessible for a disabled person.

More information on services for disabled people is available here Disabled persons.

Source: InfoFinland