Finland Allows One-Year Fixed-Term Contracts Without Justification

Finland's labor laws have shifted, now allowing employers to offer fixed-term employment contracts lasting up to one year without requiring a specific justification. This change, effective since the beginning of June, significantly alters the landscape of temporary employment in the country.

Previously, employers needed to provide a valid reason to enter into a one-year fixed-term agreement. Such reasons typically included situations like covering for an employee on parental leave, sick leave, or working on a defined project with a clear end date. The new regulation removes this requirement, simplifying the process for employers seeking to hire staff for a defined, shorter period.

In light of this legislative update, a survey is being conducted to gather insights and personal experiences related to these new one-year, no-reason fixed-term contracts. The survey aims to understand how this change impacts both employees and employers across various sectors in Finland. Researchers are looking for individuals who have either been offered such a contract or know someone who has, to share their stories and perspectives on this evolving aspect of Finnish labor law.