This legislation establishes the Finnish Museum Agency, under the Ministry of Education and Culture, to safeguard cultural heritage and manage the country’s museums. Its primary purpose is to enhance the protection, management, and display of Finland’s cultural and historical assets.
The Agency’s responsibilities include the acquisition, care, and exhibition of cultural and historical national assets. It acts as an expert authority for the protection of cultural heritage and environments, and oversees ancient monuments and cultural sites not managed by other authorities. Additionally, it is responsible for researching cultural heritage, preserving related information, and ensuring its accessibility for public use.
The Agency comprises the Finnish National Museum, which serves as a national cultural history museum, along with other operational units and potentially regional offices. It is led by a Director General, who is supported by a specific session for resolving significant and wide-ranging issues. The Agency is authorised to charge fees for its services, but may reduce or waive these fees for educational, scientific, or public interest reasons.
This legislation plays a critical role in the preservation and promotion of Finland’s cultural heritage, ensuring that historical artefacts and sites are protected, studied, and made accessible for future generations.
