On-site inspections in public offices and institutions have traditionally been an important part of the Ombudsman's work.

Linguistic rights the theme for 2010

In 2010 the special themes of inspections are linguistic rights and the requirement of correct parliance.

The matters explored in this respect are how the client's linguistic rights are put into practice by authorities, whether the authorities respect the client's right to get service in his or her own language, i.e. in Finnish or Swedish, and whether they take into consideration the reguirement of correct parliance.

Inspections in 2009

The Ombudsman and the Deputy-Ombudsmen conducted 58 (71 in 2008) on-site inspections in 2009. Inspection days totalled 52.

Prisons, closed institutions, Defence Forces

The law obliges the Ombudsman to conduct on-site inspections especially in prisons and closed institutions and to monitor the treatment of persons confined in them.

In addition, she carries out regular inspections in units of the Defence Forces, Border Guard and in Finnish peacekeeping contingents. 

Inspections also take place at police stations, public prosecutor's offices and courts as well as social welfare and health care authorities and institutions, such as homes for the mentally handicapped and children's homes. 

Special attention to appropriateness of conditions

The matters examined during on-site inspections of institutions include the appropriateness of conditions, such as accommodation areas, as well as food and health care.

Attention is also paid to the treatment of inmates as well as to the use of coercive and disciplinary measures.

During inspections, inmates of institutions as well as conscripts always have the opportunity to speak to the Ombudsman or her representative in confidentiality.

Other aspects examined at sites inspected include how smoothly matters are taken care of and whether decisions are made appropriately: whether they are in accordance with the law and based on sufficient grounds.

Inspections also always include discussions with the personnel and managements of institutions as well as scrutiny of documents. 

Failings come to light

Shortcomings which the Ombudsman decides on her own initiative to investigate often come to light in the course of on-site inspections.

Inspections have an important preventive function, but at the same time they provide a picture of the circumstances in which the authorities must operate and add to the knowledge needed to arise at decisions on complaints.

The confidential discussions reveal also shortcomings which have not been brought to the Ombudsman's attention in complaints.