Contacting the Ombudsman for Children

The Ombudsman for Children receives many invitations to various occasions in the course of the Ombudsman’s duties. Meeting and appearance requests to the Ombudsman for Children Pekkarinen should be addressed to the administrative assistant. 

We ask all parties issuing an invitation to consider how the participation of the Ombudsman for Children in the event would promote the rights of children and include a brief statement of reasons with the invitation.

Our other experts are also available to represent the Office of the Ombudsman for Children at various events and occasions. Inquiries may be addressed to the administrative assistant or directly to the expert concerned.

The Ombudsman for Children generally cannot assist in situations where a child’s rights have been violated. This is because the Ombudsman for Children does not have the authority to deal with complaints, petitions, or individual cases concerning children and families. Please see our guidance for difficult situations in the following section.

The Office of the Ombudsman for Children welcomes information on the realisation of the rights of the child. The Ombudsman for Children may, at their discretion, express an opinion on the realisation of the child’s best interests and rights based on individual cases. The Ombudsman’s opinions focus on matters of broader significance and importance in principle. 

Please send your communication primarily by email to lapsiasiavaltuutettu(at)oikeus.fi. Telephone service hours for members of the public are on Tuesdays from 13.00 to 15.00, tel. 0295 643 340. Inquiries from members of the public are answered and handled by Senior Officer Katja Mettinen.

If you are dissatisfied with a decision made by a public authority or with the way you have been treated, see this page for guidance on how to proceed. 

We have compiled a list of sources of help that you can turn to for advice, support, and assistance in a range of challenging situations.

We recommend familiarising yourself with the frequently asked questions addressed to the Ombudsman for Children.