Analyzing the Connection of Low Reporting Thresholds on the Efficiency and Progression of Criminal Investigations

• In Event: International Criminal Law Making Policies Panel 2

Abstract

In Finland, there has been a concerted effort to effectively address violence against children. Consequently, the role of the police in cases of suspected violence against children has been increased during the 21st century. The broader reporting obligation that came into effect in 2015 mandates professionals to report suspicions of child abuse directly to the police with a remarkably low threshold by international comparison. The strengthening of the police's role has led to critical discussions regarding the role of the criminal process, particularly in cases of suspected disciplinary violence, and concerns about the overcrowding of the criminal justice system. Previous research indicates that the number of reports to the police has increased, but it has been unclear how the lowering of the reporting threshold has affected the progression of the process and the realization of children's legal rights protection. This paper is based on nationwide crime statistics data from Finland for the years 2009-2023. The research shows that although the number of crime reports has increased, the number of cases proceeding to consideration of charges has not increased. At the same time, the data indicates that as the number of reports has grown, the duration of criminal investigations has continuously lengthened. This paper analyzes this development in more detail, using variables such as the type of crime, the age of the child, and the relationship between the child and the perpetrator. Additionally, the article examines the grounds on which the criminal investigations have not proceeded to prosecution and the trends in this regard.

Authors

• Mari Fadjukoff, Tampere University / Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare

• Noora Ellonen, Research director

• Taina Laajasalo, Finnish Institute for Health and Wellfare