inngangspartier

Inngangspartier, a term used in political science and particularly in Scandinavian multi-party systems, refers to political parties that enter the government by joining a ruling coalition after an election. These parties are typically not the largest in the parliament and may be smaller or relatively new entrants that gain cabinet posts as part of a negotiated agreement.

The concept helps explain how coalitions are formed and how influence is distributed among partners. During coalition negotiations, parties are offered ministerial portfolios and policy influence in exchange for their support. Entry into government can allow these parties to push for concessions on issues central to their platforms or regional interests, and to secure a voice in how legislation is shaped. Their presence can affect the overall policy direction of the government, parliamentary voting discipline, and the stability of the administration.

Characteristics of inngangspartier include their status as compared with long-standing governing parties and opposition parties, and their potential to bring new voters or regional weight into the coalition. Their tenure can vary, lasting for a full parliamentary term or for only part of a term in response to political realignments. The label itself is not universal and depends on national practice; in some contexts the same situations may be described simply as coalition partners or cabinet partners.

In discussions of coalition dynamics, inngangspartier are analyzed for their bargaining power, policy leverage, and impact on government cohesion. See also coalition government, party system, and coalition negotiations.