Helsinki allows toplessness at beaches, sparking legal discussions

A recent decision by the City of Helsinki to allow toplessness on its beaches has raised legal considerations, though experts assert it will have no criminal implications. Professor Sakari Melander from the University of Helsinki stated that while the city can recommend guidelines for attire and behavior at public beaches, such guidelines hold no legal weight in the context of criminal law.

For instance, the rules at beaches in Kajaani prohibit women from going topless. Melander clarified that these guidelines are not legally binding, and violating them does not lead to criminal accountability.

He noted that while toplessness might offend some, it does not meet the criteria for a crime. Generally, the police cannot issue fines simply because someone’s nudity may disturb others. Moreover, Tatu Hyttinen, an associate professor of criminal law at the University of Turku, emphasized that the law does not outright ban nudity or sunbathing.

The existing legal framework regarding public decency mainly pertains to intimate acts and situations of indecent exposure. Melander stated that he does not see toplessness on beaches as a criminal issue, regardless of gender.

Public beaches are categorized as free and open spaces, leading to a more lenient legal interpretation compared to private areas like parks or shops. Melander believes that places like Kaivopuisto in Helsinki should be assessed similarly to beaches. Conversely, municipal swimming pools, being paid facilities, typically enforce stricter dress codes, where staff, rather than police, would address any infractions related to clothing rules.