Eduskunta

Eduskunta, officially the Parliament of Finland, is the unicameral legislative body of Finland. Based in Helsinki, it comprises 200 members (Members of Parliament) elected for four-year terms. The modern parliamentary system was established in 1906, replacing the old Diet and shaping Finland’s representative democracy.

Elections are held every four years under open-list proportional representation in 13 multi-member districts. Seats are allocated to parties using the D’Hondt method, and voters may influence the order of candidates on party lists through preference votes.

Functions and powers: Eduskunta enacts laws, approves the state budget, and oversees the government and public administration. It conducts inquiries, questions ministers, and operates through standing and special committees that scrutinize legislation and administration. The Parliament can pass a motion of no confidence against the government, which typically leads to the resignation or reshaping of the cabinet. It also ratifies international treaties and participates in major constitutional processes.

Structure and leadership: The Parliament elects a Speaker and Deputy Speakers to preside over sessions. It conducts its work through committees covering areas such as finance, foreign affairs, and education. The Eduskunta has constitutional authority regarding financial legislation, legislative initiative, and accountability of the executive. In cases involving high treason or certain offenses by ministers, Parliament can initiate proceedings that are adjudicated by the Court of Impeachment.

Relation to the executive and the presidency: Finland is a parliamentary republic. The government is responsible to the Eduskunta and generally remains in office only while it has parliamentary confidence. The President’s role is largely ceremonial, with limited powers in foreign policy and national defense, exercised in cooperation with the government.