Finland: Ministry for Foreign Affairs and University of Helsinki to cooperate to strengthen the rule of law workings in developing countries

NordenBladet — Finland is strengthening the rule of law activities in developing countries. Supporting democracy and the rule of law is a key goal in the Government Programme and the development policy of Finland. In recent years, development of the rule of law has considerably weakened in different parts the world. Development of the rule of law is subjected to growing challenges that are exacerbated further by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Work to promote and strengthen the rule of law is increasingly important.On Monday, 8 March 2021, Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Ville Skinnari and Rector of the University of Helsinki Sari Lindblom signed a cooperation agreement to establish the Rule of Law Center.

“Finland is a strong state governed by the rule of law; demand for our know-how is growing abroad and we want to offer solutions. Promoting the principle of the rule of law and fostering democracy also play a key role in our foreign and security policy and our development policy. The Rule of Law Center established today with the University of Helsinki acts as a valuable network domestically and as a central messenger of Finland’s strengths abroad,” says Minister Skinnari.

The aim of the Rule of Law Center, which operates within the University of Helsinki, is to support developing countries in creating and reinforcing the foundation of the rule of law, in developing the functional capacity of the rule of law institutions, and in strengthening legislation by providing expertise, training and other support. The activities of the Center are financed from development cooperation funds. The Rule of Law Center brings together experts on the rule of law in Finnish society and supports their networking.

“As part of the University of Helsinki, the Rule of Law Center also promotes research and teaching on the rule of law matters for the needs of developing countries. Empowered by science, the University of Helsinki wants to work for the good of the world, and the Rule of Law Center is the best way to support this objective,” Rector Lindblom says.