Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) - Finland (Ratification: 1936)
Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 - Finland (Ratification: 2017)

Article 2(2)(c) of the Convention. Community service imposed as an alternative measure to imprisonment. The Committee previously noted that, for offences punishable with unconditional imprisonment not exceeding eight months, an alternative sentence of community work may be imposed by a court, with the free, formal and informed consent of the convicted person and for a term of up to 200 hours. Such work should be performed by the convicted person free of charge and “for the public good”. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that, pursuant to section 8 of Decree No. 4 of 2011 on community service, such services may be organized by a government unit, an association under public law, or a non-profit community or foundation. Community service may also be organized by a profit-seeking community or foundation that carries out services for the Government under public supervision. According to the Government, community service may not be carried out in a commercial enterprise or for the benefit of private persons. The Committee notes further the information provided by the Government with regard to a project to amend the legislation on community service that is currently under way. The proposal seeks to adopt a uniform act encompassing all types of sanctions of community service. According to the Government, the amended legislation would also provide for a “stricter” type of community service aimed specifically at young people sanctioned for crimes committed before the age of 21. The Committee hopes that, in the context of the current law review process, its previous comments concerning community service will be duly taken into account, and that the Government will keep the Office informed of the developments in this area. The Committee requests the Government to supply, where appropriate, a copy of the new texts.