Many river basins are shared by Finland with neighbouring countries Sweden, Norway or Russia. The most significant river basins where international co-operation is needed are those of the rivers Tornio, Teno, Näätämö, Paatsjoki and Vuoksi. Decisions on issues related to these river basins have so far been handled by transboundary river basin commissions set up through bilateral government agreements.

The EU Water Framework Directive (2000) stipulates that member states must designate transboundary river basin management districts covering river basins shared by more than one country. The legislation for implementing the directive in Finland will set up two such districts, covering the Tornio river basin, shared with Sweden.

Contacts:

Mr. Claes Rundgren
Vize Director
Haparanda Tingsraett
Boks 174
S-953 24 Haparanda,
Sweden
Tel: +46-922 104 20
Fax: +46-922 143 22
E-mail:

Mrs. Sirkka Haunia
Director, International Affairs
Finnish Environment
Institute (SYKE)
Kesäkatu 6
P.O. Bo 140
FIN-00251 Helsinki
Finland
Tel: +358 9 4030 0706
E-mail: sirkka.haunia[at]ymparisto.fi

Related links:

http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/mnp/nail/2003/00000003/00000001/art00004
http://www2.hs.fi/english/archive/thisweek/13052000.html
http://www.vyh.fi
http://www2.hs.fi/english/archive/news.asp?id=20020510IE6