Riippumattomat

Riippumattomat is Finnish for "the independents" and refers to political candidates or groups who operate without formal affiliation to a registered political party. In Finland, the label is commonly seen in municipal elections, where voters may encounter a local list named Riippumattomat or individual candidates who stand as riippumattomat. The term covers both solitary independents and loosely organized local groups that describe themselves as independent from party discipline. They often campaign on local issues and emphasize non-partisanship, transparency, and direct engagement with voters.

In terms of organization, riippumattomat generally do not constitute a nationwide party with centralized leadership or formal national platforms. Instead, they may operate as loose coalitions within a city or municipal council, collaborate on issue-based agendas, and form temporary majorities or opposition groupings as needed. Their electoral success varies by municipality and election cycle, reflecting local sentiment rather than national party dynamics.

Within Finnish political culture, riippumattomat are part of the broader spectrum of nonpartisan or independent candidates. The label contrasts with official political parties that have formal membership, candidate lists, and policy platforms.

See also: Independent candidate, Nonpartisan politics, Local political lists (Finland).