National defence obligation

All Finnish citizens who have turned 18 have a duty to defend their country (to participate in the defence of Finland).

• Men aged between 18 and 60 are liable for military service, which includes carrying out military service. For reasons of conscience, the service obligation can be fulfilled by doing unarmed or non-military service.
• Women are not liable for military service, but women aged from 18 to 29 can volunteer for military service.
• In crisis situations, men and women who have not performed the military service may be ordered to maintain functions essential to society.

For more information on national defence and instructions on how to act during a military conflict, see the Preparing for incidents and crises guide.