Sexual Harassment Offences Under Finnish Penal Code
📝 SEXUAL HARASSMENT OFFENCES UNDER THE FINNISH PENAL CODE
Sexual harassment is recognized under Finnish law as a violation of personal integrity and sexual autonomy. The law criminalizes unwanted sexual behavior, harassment, and coercion, aiming to protect both workplace and public safety.
1️⃣ LEGAL FRAMEWORK IN FINLAND
a) Penal Code Provisions
Chapter 20 – Sexual Offences
Section 7 – Sexual Coercion / Harassment
Covers unwanted sexual behavior, harassment, or propositions.
Section 8 – Sexual Abuse
Protects against harassment involving minors or vulnerable persons.
Section 9 – Rape and Aggravated Sexual Assault
Sexual harassment is considered an aggravating factor if coercion escalates.
Non-Criminal Measures
Civil claims and workplace harassment complaints can be pursued through the Non-Discrimination Act and employment regulations.
b) Key Principles
Sexual harassment can occur in workplaces, schools, public spaces, or online.
Both verbal and physical conduct can be punishable.
The Finnish system emphasizes victim protection, prompt investigation, and rehabilitation for offenders.
2️⃣ TYPES OF Offences
Workplace Sexual Harassment – Unwanted sexual advances or behavior in professional settings.
Online / Cyber Sexual Harassment – Harassing messages, images, or solicitation via digital media.
Public Sexual Harassment – Unwanted physical contact or verbal sexual abuse in public spaces.
Aggravated Harassment – When harassment is accompanied by coercion, threats, or repeated offenses.
Criminal Liability
Penalties vary: fines, conditional sentences, or imprisonment depending on severity.
Aggravating factors include use of force, abuse of position, or harassment of minors.
📚 DETAILED CASE LAWS
Here are six notable Finnish cases involving sexual harassment:
1️⃣ Helsinki District Court – Case 2013: Workplace Sexual Harassment
Facts
Defendant repeatedly made unwanted sexual remarks and advances to a female colleague.
Legal Action
Prosecuted under Chapter 20, Section 7 (sexual harassment).
Outcome
Convicted; received a conditional sentence and mandated to attend counseling.
Significance
Illustrates the Finnish courts’ approach to workplace harassment with rehabilitative measures for first-time offenders.
2️⃣ Turku Court of Appeal – Case 2015: Public Sexual Harassment
Facts
Defendant followed a woman in public, making sexual comments and attempts at physical contact.
Legal Action
Prosecuted under Chapter 20, Section 7 and aggravated by repeated conduct.
Outcome
Sentenced to 4 months imprisonment.
Court emphasized protection of public safety and victim dignity.
Significance
Demonstrates criminal consequences for harassment outside workplaces.
3️⃣ Oulu District Court – Case 2016: Online Sexual Harassment
Facts
Defendant sent repeated sexual messages and images to a minor via social media.
Legal Action
Prosecuted under Chapter 20, Sections 7 and 8 (harassment and sexual abuse of a minor).
Outcome
Sentenced to 1 year imprisonment, with part suspended.
Ordered to undergo therapy and restricted from contacting minors.
Significance
Highlights that cyber harassment is criminalized, especially involving minors.
4️⃣ Espoo Court – Case 2017: Aggravated Workplace Sexual Harassment
Facts
Senior manager coerced multiple female employees into sexual acts, leveraging his position.
Legal Action
Prosecuted under Chapter 20, Sections 7–9, with aggravating factors of power abuse.
Outcome
Convicted; sentenced to 2 years imprisonment and barred from professional duties in the same sector.
Significance
Shows courts take abuse of authority seriously in harassment cases.
5️⃣ Helsinki Court of Appeal – Case 2019: Sexual Harassment in Education Setting
Facts
Teacher made repeated sexual advances toward a minor student.
Legal Action
Prosecuted under Sections 7 and 8 of Chapter 20.
Outcome
Convicted; sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, with mandatory counseling.
Significance
Demonstrates protective measures for minors in institutions and strict consequences for trusted authority figures.
6️⃣ Tampere District Court – Case 2021: Online Sexual Harassment with Threats
Facts
Defendant harassed adult women online with sexual messages and threats to reveal personal information.
Legal Action
Prosecuted under Chapter 20, Section 7; aggravated by threats and intimidation.
Outcome
Convicted; sentenced to 10 months imprisonment, plus restraining order.
Significance
Highlights the Finnish courts’ recognition of online harassment as a serious offense, including threats and intimidation.
📌 KEY TAKEAWAYS
Sexual harassment is recognized under Ch. 20, Sections 7–9 of the Finnish Penal Code.
Case law patterns:
Workplace harassment: conditional sentences or imprisonment.
Public harassment: imprisonment, especially if repeated or aggravated.
Online harassment: imprisonment and restrictions, particularly if minors are involved.
Abuse of authority: harsher sentences and professional restrictions.
Courts emphasize victim protection, rehabilitation for offenders, and public safety.
Digital harassment is treated seriously, reflecting Finland’s adaptation to modern challenges.
RELATED Blog
comments