candidats

Candidats is the plural form of the French noun candidat, referring to people who are in contention for a position, whether in an election, a job, or a competition. In political contexts, les candidats are those who present themselves to voters. In other settings, they are applicants or nominees.

Etymology and scope: The term comes from the Latin candidatus, meaning “clothed in white” or officially designated, and has been used in French for centuries to denote someone who seeks public office or a post. The word is closely related to the act of candidacy, which describes the status or process of seeking a position.

Elections and political candidatures: In electoral systems, candidatures are subject to rules governing eligibility, declaration, and registration. Candidates may be required to submit documents, meet age or residency criteria, and sometimes secure endorsements or deposits. Electoral authorities or commissions validate candidatures, resolve disputes, and publish official lists of declared candidats to inform voters and ensure fair competition.

Non-political uses: In recruitment, academia, and other competitions, the term candidatures denotes people who apply for a vacancy, program, or prize. Selection typically involves screening applications, interviews or assessments, and a final decision that grants appointment, admission, or recognition to chosen candidats.

Legal and ethical aspects: Candidates have rights to fair consideration, access to relevant information, and timely notification of decisions. They may be subject to rules on campaign finance, anti-discrimination, and transparency, depending on the jurisdiction and the type of candidacy.

Related terms include candidature, candidate, election, and nomination.