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The honorary consulates augment Finland’s network of diplomatic missions, made up of embassies, consulate generals, consulates and other liaison offices. An honorary consulate is headed by an honorary consul. Honorary consuls are private individuals who take care of their tasks on a part-time basis without remuneration.
Within the scope of a specific geographical area, an honorary consul monitors the rights of Finns and foreigners permanently residing in Finland. He or she provides advice and guidance for distressed Finnish citizens and foreigners permanently residing in Finland who are temporarily abroad, assisting them in their contacts with local authorities or the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate. Certain types of notarized certificates can be acquired through an honorary consul. Honorary consuls do not accept passport applications nor do they handle matters pertaining to visas or residence permits. Honorary consuls cannot serve as attorneys in judicial proceedings or as legal advisers.
Together with diplomatic missions, an honorary consul promotes economic and cultural relations between Finland and the country in question, and takes part in strengthening Finland’s image abroad. An honorary consul can advise Finnish companies, for instance, in obtaining information about local business culture and in finding cooperation partners.
Jurisdiction covers the states of Virginia and West Virginia
In 1949, at the inspiration of Edith Hart, a unique Finnish-American club, KIPINÄ-KERHO, was founded in Washington D.C. by a group of women born in Finland, or of Finnish descent. The purpose was to keep Finnish culture and language alive and render material assistance to their war-torn homeland. Initial efforts were directed toward collecting clothing and other necessities. As time went on, these energetic women and their spouses turned to raising money through popular Christmas bazaars at which Finnish delicacies, glass and books, etc. were sold.
The proceeds from this undertaking have grown steadily, and go to fund medical, educational, elderly care institutions and scholarships in the U.S. and Finland. Donations are tax deductible under Section 501(C )3 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. The Association is incorporated as FINN SPARK, Inc.
The mission of Finn Spark, Inc. (Kipinä-Kerho) is to engage in charitable, educational, and cultural activities; to raise funds to benefit the elderly and children’s causes; and to give scholarships to educational and cultural institutions in Finland and in the United States.
