The right to receive indispensable subsistence and care

Those who cannot obtain the means necessary for a life of dignity have the right to receive indispensable subsistence and care. The purpose of this provision is to guarantee the prerequisites of a life of dignity.

The right to basic subsistence in risk situations

Everyone is guaranteed by an act the right to basic subsistence in the event of unemployment, illness, and disability and during old age as well as at the birth of a child or the loss of a provider.

The right to social and health services

Public authorities must guarantee for everyone, as provided in more detail by an act, adequate social, health and medical services and promote the health of the population. Moreover, public authorities must support families and other responsible for providing for children so that they have the ability to ensure the wellbeing and personal development of children.

Many acts allocate the task of organising basic services important for citizens to local government (the municipalities). Central government cannot, however, totally withdraw from responsibility: central and local government must together ensure that local authorities have sufficient funds for service provision.

The right to housing

Public authorities must promote the right of everyone to housing and the opportunity to arrange their own housing. But, this provision does not guarantee a subjective right to housing.

The right to basic education free of charge and the right to develop oneself

The educational rights include the right to basic education free of charge. Provisions on the duty to receive education are laid down by an act. Public authorities must guarantee for everyone equal opportunity to receive other educational services in accordance with their ability and special needs, as well as the opportunity to develop themselves without being prevented by economic hardship.

Basic employment rights

Everyone has the right, as provided by an act, to earn their livelihood by the employment, occupation or commercial activity of their choice. Public authorities must take responsibility for the protection of the labour force. No one may be dismissed from employment without a lawful reason.

Public authorities must promote employment and work towards guaranteeing for everyone the right to work. Provisions on the right to receive training that promotes employability are laid down by an act. This provision obliges public authorities to draw up economic and social policies that promote employment.

The basic right related to the environment

Nature and its biodiversity, the environment and the national heritage are the responsibility of everyone. Public authorities must endeavour to guarantee for everyone the right to a healthy environment and for everyone the possibility to influence decisions that concern their living environment.

Related links:
The Constitution of Finland [Finlex.fi]

Updated on September 28, 2006