Domestic violence support in Finland varies sharply by location

Access to effective support for domestic violence in Finland depends heavily on where victims or perpetrators live, according to a report by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) published Wednesday.

While some regions offer coordinated, multi-agency assistance—such as the MARAK risk assessment model—others lack structured services entirely. The THL is pushing for national legislation to standardize support, arguing that current disparities leave many without help.

“Violence doesn’t end by helping victims alone,” said Jenni Raitanen, THL’s development manager for violence prevention. She noted that perpetrators, too, often struggle to access intervention programs unless incarcerated. Organizations like Miessakit ry’s Lyömätön Linja (Non-Violent Line) operate only in Helsinki, Kuopio, and online, leaving gaps elsewhere.

Victims fare better, with crisis centers like Rikosuhripäivystys (Victim Support Finland) offering nationwide services. Police were also mandated last autumn to prioritize domestic violence cases. Yet even these measures fall short in consistency.

The MARAK model—where police, social workers, healthcare providers, and child protection specialists collaborate—has proven effective in regions like South Karelia, Lapland, and parts of Uusimaa. Teams assess risk factors (e.g., repeated emergency calls, high-risk behaviors) and create tailored safety plans. However, Helsinki and Kanta-Häme use alternative systems, and coverage remains incomplete.

A 2024 THL survey found that while professionals view MARAK as beneficial, delays in intervention persist. Many victims only enter the system after seeking shelter, though signs of abuse could emerge earlier—during prenatal visits, routine healthcare, or even passport applications.

“Professionals need training to recognize domestic violence and intervene confidently,” Raitanen stressed. Feedback from MARAK participants shows improved safety and reduced duplication of services, with many reporting greater empowerment to address their situations.

THL’s proposed legislation would define mandatory support standards for both victims and perpetrators, ensuring uniform access regardless of location.

Helplines (Finland): – Emergency: 112 – Nollalinja (24/7 support): 116 016 (call/chat) – Naisten Linja (Women’s Line): 0800 02400 (Mon–Fri 16:00–20:00; chat Tue/Thu) – Rikosuhripäivystys (Victim Support): 116 006 (Mon–Thu 09:00–18:00, Fri 09:00–16:00; Swedish Mon–Fri 12:00–14:00) – Men’s support line: 044 751 1340 (Mon–Wed 09:00–12:00) – Raiskauskriisikeskus Tukinainen (Rape Crisis Center): 0800 97899 (Mon–Thu 09:00–15:00) – Monika (multilingual crisis support): 0800 05058 (Mon–Fri; chat available; languages: Arabic, Dari, English, etc.)