Ehdokasjoukko

Ehdokasjoukko is a Finnish term that refers to the group of candidates who are standing for election, typically as part of a party’s slate or for a specific electoral district. The concept describes who is officially on the ballot as candidates, rather than the broader organization or the party as a whole.

The term is commonly used in media and political discourse to discuss the composition, strategy, or changes in a party’s candidate roster ahead of an election. It highlights the people who can potentially win seats, including both established figures and newcomers. Ehdokasjoukko can be announced by parties and may be adjusted if candidates withdraw or are replaced.

Ehdokasjoukko differs from terms such as ehdokaslista (the list of candidates) in that it emphasizes the group as a unit rather than the formal order or structure of the ballot. Nevertheless, the order of candidates on a party’s list is often relevant in proportional representation systems, as it influences which candidates receive seats based on vote counts and district rules.

In practice, the composition of an ehdokasjoukko reflects party strategy, regional considerations, and eligibility requirements set by election law. Analysts may examine the mix of veterans versus newcomers, gender and regional balance, and the potential impact on election outcomes. The term is more common in colloquial or journalistic usage than in formal legal texts.

See also: Finnish electoral system, party lists, proportional representation, municipal elections, Election Act.