Kandidaadid

Kandidaadid, the Estonian term for candidates, are individuals who seek election to public office in democratic systems. They may run in local, regional, or national elections and can appear on party lists or as independents, sometimes representing citizen groups or electoral coalitions.

Nomination and eligibility for kandidaadid are typically managed by political parties or electoral commissions. Candidates may need to be nominated by a party or meet requirements to run as independents, such as age, citizenship, and residency. Nominations usually must be filed by a set deadline, and some jurisdictions require signatures of supporters or other forms of validation.

On ballots, kandidaadid participate in elections according to the electoral system in place. In proportional representation systems, they may be listed on party lists, while in district-based systems they compete as individual candidates. In addition to parliamentary elections, kandidaadid may run in municipal, regional, or presidential contests, each with its own rules and procedures.

Campaigning and financing are generally regulated to ensure transparency and fairness. Candidates must comply with rules on campaign spending, fundraising, advertising, and disclosure. Electoral authorities oversee compliance and handle disputes or disqualifications.

Etymology and usage: kandidaadid derives from the Latin candidatus, historically associated with candidates who wore white garments to signal eligibility. Today the term is widely used to describe anyone who stands for election in a given jurisdiction.