framkvæmdarvaldi

Framkvæmdarvaldið is the executive branch of government responsible for implementing laws and running the state. It is distinct from löggjafarvaldið (the legislative branch) and dómstólar (the judiciary). In Icelandic governance, the executive is formed by the government led by the forsætisráðherra (prime minister) with the ráðherrar (ministers) and civil service. The government proposes legislation, administers public policy, and directs foreign affairs, defense, and day-to-day administration within the framework of the constitution and statute law.

The forseti Íslands (the president) has a largely ceremonial role, but performs formal duties such as appointing the prime minister and signing laws after parliamentary approval. The government is collectively responsible to Alþingi (the parliament) and must maintain its confidence; loss of confidence can trigger resignation or a new government.

Public administration and agencies operate under the executive to implement policy and deliver public services. The executive is checked by the legislature through budgetary control, motions of no confidence, and oversight mechanisms, and by the judiciary in the interpretation of laws. Independent authorities and ombudsman offices provide additional checks on executive power.

Framkvæmdarvaldið thus encompasses the permanent administration and the elected government responsible for policy execution, public resource management, and representation of the state both domestically and internationally, all within constitutional constraints and subject to democratic accountability.