The Ombudsman has the task of exercising oversight to ensure that authorities and officials observe the law and discharge their duties.

In addition to authorities and officials, the scope of the Ombudsman's oversight includes also others when they are performing tasks of a public nature.

Special attention

The Ombudsman pays special attention to the implementation of fundamental and human rights.

Another special focus of attention is on the manner in which the police employ coercive measures affecting telecommunications and their conduct of undercover operations.

The Eduskunta has likewise requested that special attention be paid to the implementation of children's rights. 

The Ombudsman oversees legality principally by examining complaints received. He can also intervene in perceived shortcomings on her own initiative.

Inspections

In addition, the Ombudsman carries out inspections at offices and institutions, especially prisons, military garrisons and other closed institutions.

This enables him to oversee the treatment of prisoners, persons confined to institutions, conscripts doing their national service and peacekeeping personnel.

The tasks of the Ombudsman are defined in the Constitution and in the Parliamentary Ombudsman Act.