Defence

All Finnish citizens have a duty to defend their country.

Finnish men can fulfil this obligation by doing military service as part of conscription. Fitness for military service and the start date of the military service are determined at call-ups. For reasons of conscience, defence obligation can be fulfilled by doing unarmed or non-military service.

The obligation to defend Finland also applies to women even though they are exempt from conscription. In crisis situations, women may be ordered to maintain functions essential to society.

Women may also apply for voluntary military service.