forsetaræðis

Forsetaræðis refers to a period in Icelandic history characterized by the rule of a president, as opposed to a prime minister or other forms of government. Following World War II, Iceland underwent a significant constitutional change, transitioning from a monarchy to a republic. The office of the president was established in 1944, and the first president, Sveinn Björnsson, assumed office.

The role of the president in Iceland is largely ceremonial. The president serves as the head of state and represents the country both domestically and internationally. While the president appoints the prime minister and cabinet, these appointments are typically made in consultation with parliamentary parties and are based on the composition of the Althing, Iceland's parliament. The president also signs laws passed by the Althing, though they possess a limited power to veto legislation, which has been rarely exercised.

The concept of forsetaræðis is distinct from presidential systems found in other countries, where the president often holds significant executive power. In Iceland, executive power primarily resides with the government, led by the prime minister. The president's functions are largely symbolic, aimed at providing national unity and continuity. The term itself highlights the presidential nature of this governmental structure, even with its limited executive authority. Over time, Iceland's political landscape has remained a parliamentary republic, with the presidency playing a constitutional, rather than an executive, role.