The Finnish government, through a statement from the Ministry of Justice, has introduced a proposal to implement preventive detention known as 'varmuusvankeus'. This would allow the extension of imprisonment for individuals deemed a continued threat to society, particularly those convicted of serious crimes. Justice Minister Leena Meri has articulated that these important legislative changes aim to enhance the protection of society from individuals who pose a danger, aligning Finland's approach with those adopted by other Nordic countries.

Additionally, the current legislation already includes a combination sentence for repeat violent offenders, which mandates that convicted individuals serve their entire sentence in prison without the possibility of parole. However, the existing combination sentence law stipulates that these offenders are released at the end of their sentences, regardless of their assessed threat level to the community. This reform proposal seeks to address that limitation, as the government acknowledges the need for a system that better manages individuals who may still be harmful upon completion of their prison terms.

This legislative initiative reflects a broader trend in criminal justice policy towards increased public safety by providing authorities with the tools to manage offenders whose risks are deemed unacceptable. If passed, it could significantly alter the landscape of how offenders are treated in Finland, emphasizing community safety over rehabilitation for those viewed as dangerous.