Police and a police negotiator at the Elokapina demonstration for pollinators in central Helsinki on 4 August 2024. LEHTIKUVA
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Police in Finland deployed tactical negotiators to more than 300 situations in 2024, the highest number on record.
According to Johanna Sinivuori, a commissioner at the Helsinki Police Department, most cases involved suicidal individuals or the apprehension of dangerous persons. She said in a televised interview that societal distress and mental health problems are increasingly reflected in police operations.
Tactical negotiation is a specialised method used by police to resolve critical incidents peacefully. Though often associated with hostage situations, such scenarios are rare in Finland. The vast majority of cases involve self-harm threats.
“All police departments now have their own tactical negotiators,” Sinivuori said. “Nationwide, there are slightly fewer than 200 trained officers.”
The number of trained negotiators has increased steadily in recent years.
Negotiators are trained to establish verbal contact as soon as possible, ideally from close proximity. In suicide threats, such as someone attempting to jump from a high-rise, negotiators may be lifted into position using fire department equipment, such as aerial baskets or safety mats.
“There’s no rush,” Sinivuori said. “The goal is always a peaceful and safe outcome—for both the subject and the police.”
In cases involving dangerous individuals, close contact is not always pursued. Safety remains a priority.
Tactical negotiation is a complement to regular police operations and functions as part of a wider team response. According to Sinivuori, in 90 percent of cases where verbal contact is established, the outcome is resolved without the use of force.
The work is demanding and requires a calm and composed mindset. Negotiators must be skilled in communication and listening, and must avoid escalation.
Training is provided through the Police University College in Tampere, which offers a dedicated tactical negotiation course. Officers also participate in follow-up and maintenance training.
“The assignments themselves are a form of continuous training,” Sinivuori said.
Finland’s negotiation model is based on the FBI system. Several European countries also use the same framework.
While hostage incidents are rare, suicide threats are becoming increasingly complex and emotionally taxing. Sinivuori said these calls can be some of the most difficult for police.
“It’s mentally demanding work,” she said. “Both types of situations challenge us in different ways.”
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
