During May Day, the police secure everyone’s basic and human rights, maintain public order and safety, monitor the restrictions related to the coronavirus situation within the limits of its powers and, where necessary, intervene in activities that endanger public order and safety.
“The operations of the police are not that different compared to previous May Days, even though we are in a state of emergency,” states Chief Superintendent Konsta Arvelin from the National Police Board.
The police urge adults to monitor what children and young people are doing and, if necessary, instruct them.
“We expect people to obey the provided instructions and restrictions for the sake of themselves, their loved ones and the entire society, and that the police do not need to intervene in gatherings which are prohibited during the state of emergency,” Arvelin says.
The National Police Board reports how May Day is proceeding nationally at approximately 8 PM on 30 April 2020 as well as on 1 May 2020 at approximately 10 AM and 6 PM.
Frequently asked questions related to May Day
On Tuesday, 28 April 2020, the police answered citizens’ questions regarding May Day on Facebook.
Below, you will find some frequently asked questions related to May Day.
How is the police monitoring May Day celebrations?
During May Day, the police monitor public order and safety visibly. In addition, the police monitor that restrictions on food and beverage service establishments are adhered to.
Are gatherings of more than 10 people prohibited in public areas?
Right now, it’s forbidden to organise public meetings, such as demonstrations, with more than 10 people. Public events, such as shows or other entertainment with more than 10 people physically present are also forbidden.
Can we gather in a small group if we make sure to keep a safe distance from each other?
Because of the coronavirus, it has been recommended to avoid unnecessary gatherings in public areas. This recommendation remains valid during May Day. Even if people gather only as a small group with their family, several groups will quickly form a large gathering of hundreds of people. This year, there will be no events in places where May Day celebrations traditionally happen, and you should not go there even as a small group. The police and other authorities recommend that if you gather with your immediate circle, do so at home, in your own yard or somewhere in the surrounding neighbourhood.
What will the police do if people gather during May Day, for example, for a picnic?
As mentioned above, mass gatherings must be avoided. This May Day, you can organise a picnic in your own yard, an area surrounding your home or a place such as the nearby forest.
The police will use its powers to intervene in the situation if it detects an organised gathering or a gathering that endangers public order and safety. The starting point is that the police instructs, advises and urges. The police also have the powers to order a group of people to disperse and relocate as well as an individual to leave if a gathering endangers public order and safety.
When should I call 112 during May Day?
You can call the emergency number if you encounter an emergency situation or urgently need the help of law enforcement. An emergency situation is a situation where you know or assume that a life, health, property or environment is threatened or in danger.
A suspected coronavirus infection is not a reason to call the emergency number. Unnecessary enquiries delay help for those people who face a real danger.
#virtuaalivappu encourages people to celebrate at home and online
The Finnish Ministry of the Interior and the police have established a #virtuaalivappu campaign to encourage people to celebrate May Day online instead of the traditional festivities. The virtual May Day events can be found at virtuaalivappu.fi. The website has additional questions and answers related to the May Day festivities and coronavirus.
The virtuaalivappu.fi website includes the best tips for spending an entertaining May Day. Artists, influencers, student organisations, communities, companies and municipalities have added their own free May Day live events which are open for everyone.
The police wish everyone a safe and peaceful May Day despite the state of emergency.
