Police propose revising the legislation banning face coverings

The events at the May Day (1 May) demonstrations in Tampere have sparked wide-ranging debate. The Deputy National Police Commissioner had this to say in her blog: Concealing your identity at a protest is not conducive to safety; the law must be revised.

Concealing your face is incompatible with the values of an open and safe society. The Police propose revising the legislation banning face coverings.

The law as it stands prohibits a person from disguising their identity at a gathering in a public place if their intent is to commit an offence. In practice, however, the interpretation of the law concerning “clear intent” is challenging for the police, as it requires advance proof of a plan to commit a crime.

Concealing one’s identity is linked to certain fundamental rights, such as the freedom of speech and the right to self-determination. At the same time, however, it can encourage illegal activity and jeopardise the safety of others. One person’s right to cover their face cannot take precedence over the rights of others, such as their personal safety.

“The current legislation on face coverings needs to be revised. Participating in a protest while wearing a mask has no place in an open and safe society. Openness requires the courage to stand by your words and show your face," notes Deputy National Police Commissioner Sanna Heikinheimo in her article.