The European Commission's 2026 Rule of Law Report, published on 17 July 2026, assesses Finland's progress on rule of law recommendations as limited, noting high perceived judicial independence but persistent gaps in court efficiency, digitalisation, and anti-corruption reforms. The country chapter, part of the broader annual rule of law review, highlights that while 85% of the public and companies perceive judicial independence as high, this marks a slight decrease from 2025 levels of 89% and 90% respectively.
The report details that a working group on judicial independence continues its work, and constitutional amendments to safeguard judiciary independence are being prepared, following a Venice Commission opinion issued in March 2026. However, progress on reforming lay judge appointments remains limited; consultations showed wide support for abolishing the system, but cost concerns are an obstacle. Length of proceedings in civil and commercial cases rose from 349 days in 2023 to 464 days in 2024, despite temporary additional funding of €30 million in 2024, €65 million in 2025, and €80 million in 2026, which is set to end. Digitalisation gaps persist, with no digital tools available for citizens to initiate or follow civil, commercial, or administrative cases online; an electronic portal for lawyers is planned by end of 2026.
On anti-corruption, the report notes that post-employment rules for government members have been adopted, and a code of conduct for ministers is planned for 2026. Financial lobbying data will be reported to the Transparency Register for the first time in July–August 2026. The reform of the Act on the Openness of Government Activities remains under review, with two studies commissioned and a new working group to be set up. The Finnish Broadcasting Company's funding was reduced for 2024-2027, leading to a savings programme.
The document concludes that Finland maintains strong rule of law foundations but must advance on lay judge reform, digitalisation of justice, a ministerial code of conduct, and access to documents reform to address the Commission's recommendations. The report will feed into the broader EU rule of law dialogue, with the European Parliament and Council expected to discuss the findings in the coming months.