Kandidatgrupper

Kandidatgrupper are formal groupings of candidates that run on a single electoral slate, typically within a political party or as an independent local slate. They are created to present a coherent platform, coordinate a campaign, and appear under a distinct name on the ballot.

Membership usually includes candidates for local or regional offices. They may be established by a party branch for a municipality or by civic associations forming a local slate. The group often decides on the order of candidates on the list, policy priorities, and candidate selection, sometimes through internal elections. In many systems, a kandidatgrupp is distinct from the national party list, though it may be affiliated.

Legal frameworks govern how kandidatgrupper submit their lists, including any signature requirements, and how votes translate into seats (for example, open versus closed lists and proportional representation). Names and designations must be registered with the electoral authority, and campaign finance reporting may be tied to the group.

Formation of kandidatgrupper allows local communities to emphasize specific issues or improve representation for particular groups within a party or in independent local slates. Depending on the jurisdiction, such groups can influence post-election negotiations, coalition building, or appointments in councils and other bodies.