Finland. I am a child victim of domestic or sexual violence (if it is committed by a family member or if parents are ignorant)

01. Call the Police

— What can I do? What rights do I have?

You can call emergency number 112 to ask for police or medical help.

Childrens’- young people’s help-line (Lasten ja nuorten puhelin) offers discussion help in difficult life situations: 0800-120 400.

Crises help-line (Nuorten kriisipisteen kriisipuhelin): 09-7535 121.

You can also call to the support center for the victims of domestic and sexual violence, where you will receive councelling and support for working out your next steps Nollalinja — 080 005 005. Here you can request translation to Russian.

— As a minor, can I call the police myself?

Yes.

— Can I represent my own interests in state bodies, courts etc.?

No, welfare services will take over the responsibility.

02. Get medical help

— As a minor, can I ask for medical help myself?

Yes.

— Can I represent my own interests in medical organizations?

Yes.  

— Will I be removed from my own family? How? When? etc.

You can be removed if your life is in danger, but you are going to be advised to use one of the shelters for the victims of domestic violence.

— When I call the police, what language should I speak?

You can use Finnish, Swedish, or English languages.

— Legislation punishing violence against children? 

List of Articles from Administrative and Criminal Codes:

Penal Code

• Chapter 18: Offenses Against Family Rights;

• Chapter 20: Sexual Offences (4(1), 6, 7(1));

• Chapter 21: Homicide and Injurious Offences (4);

• Chapter 25: Offences against Liberty (3), The Child Welfare Act (Lastensuojelulaki 417/2007, entered into force in 2008)

specifies the responsibilities of parents and authorities in ensuring the protection and wellbeing of children in general, including also children with disabilities. The main purpose of this act is to protect children and offer services for families in risk situations (for example families that suffer from alcoholism or other social problems). It also establishes the grounds and procedures for the custody of the child. The best interests of the child are the guiding principle of this act.

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