itsenäiset

Itsenäiset is Finnish for the independents or independent, and the term is used to describe people or groups not formally affiliated with any political party. It is commonly applied to independent candidates in elections as well as elected officials who sit without party membership, and who may or may not align with parties on specific issues.

In Finland's multi-party system, independents can participate in elections at municipal and national levels. Independent Members of Parliament may be elected to the Eduskunta (Finnish Parliament) and, if they form a group of multiple independents, may organize informally as a parliamentary group, though they do not form a traditional party with a program. At the municipal level, many councils include independent councillors who run without party sponsorship.

Campaigns and roles: Independents typically emphasize local issues, direct accountability, and personal networks. They can act as swing voters or broker agreements between parties, but their lack of a formal platform may limit access to resources, media, and the ability to pursue broad policy programs.

Criticism and reception: Supporters view independents as free from party discipline and better suited to represent local interests; critics say that the absence of a shared program can hinder coherent policy-making and governance.

In media and public discourse, itsenäiset is a common label for those running or serving without party affiliation. It is also used as a generic descriptor as well as a label for electoral lists or groups that identify themselves as independent.