Vararepresentant

Vararepresentant is a term used in several Nordic parliamentary systems to describe a deputy or substitute member of a legislative body. A vararepresentant serves in place of the primary member when that member is absent, unable to perform duties, or temporarily assigned to another role.

In practice, vararepresentanter are typically elected from the same political party and electoral district as the primary representative. The order on the party list determines which substitute will take a seat when needed. While serving as a substitute, the vararepresentant has the rights and responsibilities of a member, including participation in debates, committee work, and voting, for as long as they are substituting. When the regular member is present or resumes duties, the substitute steps back.

The concept exists most clearly in countries such as Norway and Sweden, where the legislative system relies on a fixed list of alternates to ensure continuity of representation. The use of vararepresentanter helps maintain party representation and representation for constituencies even when individual members are unavailable. If a primary member resigns, is elected to a government position, or otherwise leaves the parliament, the next qualified substitute from the same party list typically advances to fulfill the vacancy, in accordance with national procedures.

Variations of the role and its exact powers can differ between countries and legislative bodies, but the core idea remains: a designated substitute who can participate and vote only when the regular member is not present.