Finland's National Police Board has issued new mandatory guidelines for handling domestic violence cases. Officers must now launch preliminary investigations regardless of the victim's wishes.
The directive comes after the Deputy Chancellor of Justice found police had unlawfully dropped multiple assault cases occurring in close relationships. Police Chief Sanna Heikinheimo stated all domestic violence reports require official recording and investigation initiation independent of victim consent.
Domestic violence presents unique challenges for Finnish authorities. Victims often hesitate to pursue cases due to fear, pressure, or emotional attachment to the perpetrator.
Under Finnish law, assault within close relationships qualifies as an offense subject to public prosecution. Even minor assaults cannot be mediated or dismissed by police decision, regardless of victim cooperation or evidence difficulties.
The policy shift addresses a systemic gap where dangerous patterns could continue unchecked. This creates clearer accountability for officers responding to sensitive situations.
Police now face the practical challenge of building cases without victim cooperation. The change reflects Finland's evolving approach to protecting vulnerable individuals behind closed doors.