Finland - Legislation on the possession and carrying of knives

General Status:

Finnish Public Order Act prohibits the carrying of knives and similar sharp instruments in public places without a justified purpose.

Restrictions:

- Carrying any knife in public requires a lawful reason (work, outdoor activities, etc.).

- Automatic knives, gravity knives, and disguised knives are prohibited from import and sale.

Warning:

Possessing a knife without justification in public may lead to confiscation and fines. Police have broad discretion to enforce the law. Self-defense is not accepted as a valid reason for carrying a knife.