forsætisráðherra

Forsætisráðherra, translated as Prime Minister, is the head of government of Iceland and the presiding figure of the government. The office sits within the executive branch; the President is the ceremonial head of state. The Prime Minister leads the Cabinet and is responsible for setting government policy, coordinating the work of the ministries, and representing Iceland domestically and abroad in conjunction with other ministers.

The Prime Minister is appointed by the President, normally the leader of the political party or coalition with a majority in Alþingi. The person who holds the office must command the confidence of Alþingi; without it, the government may resign or a new government may be formed following elections.

The Prime Minister forms the government by selecting ministers and assigning portfolios; the cabinet is collectively responsible to Alþingi. The term length is not fixed; governments usually last until the next election or until a vote of no confidence or coalition collapse triggers a change in leadership.

In practice, the Prime Minister uses consultation with parties and Parliament to fashion policy, and chairs regular meetings of the Cabinet. While the President's formal powers include appointing the Prime Minister and, in some circumstances, dissolving Parliament, constitutional practice grounds the Prime Minister's authority in parliamentary support.

Historically, the office emerged with Iceland's move toward home rule in the early 20th century and the eventual establishment of a republic in 1944. The Forsætisráðherra remains the principal figure in Iceland's executive branch and the primary architect of government policy.