Your vote counts

Why Vote in the Finnish Parliamentary Elections?

The Finnish parliamentary elections are held every four years, and every Finnish citizen who is at least 18 years old on election day is eligible to vote. The elections are held in direct, proportional, and secret ballots, and citizens vote not just for a party but for a particular candidate. Voting is an essential civic duty that allows citizens to have a say in the direction of their country and to choose the candidates and parties that best represent their values and interests.

One of the reasons to vote in the Finnish parliamentary elections is to ensure that your voice is heard. By casting your vote, you have a say in the policies and laws that affect your life and the lives of others in your community. Your vote can help shape Finland's future and ensure the country moves in the right direction.

Another reason to vote is to hold politicians accountable. By voting, you can help to ensure that politicians are responsive to the needs and concerns of the people they represent. By voting for the candidates and parties that best represent your values and interests, you can help to ensure that politicians are held accountable for their actions and that they are working in the best interests of their constituents.

Who Can Be a Member of the Finnish Parliament?

A Member of Parliament (MP) in Finland must be at least 18 years of age and a Finnish citizen. A person can be elected to Parliament in two ways: through a political party or a constituency association.

The latter can be established by a group of at least one hundred eligible voters from the same electoral district.

Candidates who are elected have generally gained support and made a name for themselves through work or organizational activities. Some serve only one or two terms, but Parliament also has Members who have retained their seats for over thirty years.

How to vote

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

To be eligible to vote in the Finnish parliamentary elections, you must be at least 18 years old on election day and a Finnish citizen. You must also be registered in the Finnish Population Information System, which is used to determine who is eligible to vote in each election.

Step 2: Find Your Polling Station

Each electoral district has its polling stations, and you can find the location of your polling station on the election authorities' website or by contacting your local election authority. The polling stations are usually in public buildings such as schools or community centers.

Step 3: Bring Your ID

When you go to the polling station, you must bring a valid form of identification, such as your passport or Finnish ID card. The ID must have a photo and your personal identification number (henkilötunnus).

Step 4: Receive Your Ballot

Once you are at the polling station and have presented your ID, you will receive a ballot. The ballot will have the candidates' names and parties running in your electoral district.

Step 5: Vote

To cast your vote, you must mark the ballot paper with an "X" next to the name of the candidate or party that you wish to vote for. You can only vote for one candidate or party and not mark more than one box.

Step 6: Fold and Deposit Your Ballot

After you have marked your ballot, fold it and deposit it in the ballot box. The ballot box is usually located near the polling station officials.

Step 7: Wait for the Results

The results of the parliamentary elections are usually announced on the same day as the election. The results will show which candidates and parties have been elected in each electoral district and how many seats they have won in Parliament.

In summary, voting in the Finnish parliamentary elections is an essential civic duty that allows citizens to have a say in the direction of their country and to choose the candidates and parties that best represent their values and interests. The three largest parties will form the government for the next four years. The next prime minister rises from the party with the most votes in the parliament election.