Konstituering

Konstituering is the process by which a new government is formed after elections in parliamentary systems. It is the act of constituting the executive and its policy program, rather than drafting a constitution. The term is commonly used in Nordic political discourse and in similar parliamentary contexts.

After an election, parties assess the balance of power in the legislature and begin negotiations to form a functioning majority or to establish a minority or caretaker government. If a coalition or agreement is reached, a candidate for prime minister or equivalent is proposed. The head of state or the president, depending on constitutional practice, formally appoints the prime minister, who then proposes a cabinet. In most systems, the cabinet must obtain the confidence or investiture of the parliament, or at least avoid an explicit vote of no confidence, before taking office. Some arrangements permit a government to operate in a caretaker mode while negotiations continue.

Rules and timelines vary by country. In some systems an explicit investiture vote is required, while others rely on parliamentary confidence by convention or, in practice, on the absence of a veto. The process can be swift or drawn out, from days to months, especially when significant party realignments or policy concessions are needed.

The outcome of konstituering determines the government’s initial policy program, cabinet composition, and legislative agenda. It is a critical period for political stability and governance, particularly in multiparty systems where coalition agreements shape long-term policy directions.