kandideerijate

Kandideerijate is the Estonian term referring to candidates in elections or other public processes. The form kandideerijate is the genitive plural of kandideerija, meaning individuals who stand for election or accept nomination for a public office. The related verb kandideerida means to run as a candidate or to pursue candidacy. The word is commonly used in political reporting, party platforms, and electoral documentation to describe those who seek public mandates.

In practice, kandideerijad participate in electoral processes either by being nominated by a political party or by standing independently. A candidate typically must be registered with the competent electoral authority by a designated deadline, and must meet the eligibility requirements set by the applicable election law. These requirements commonly include age, citizenship, and residency criteria, as well as any disqualifications specified by law (such as certain legal orders or restrictions related to public office). The exact rules vary depending on whether the candidacy is for municipal, national, or European elections.

During campaigns, kandideerijad present their programs, participate in debates, and appeal to voters within the framework of campaign finance regulations, which govern how campaigns are funded and reported. The success of kandideerijadate is determined by election outcomes or, in cases of appointments, by the relevant appointing authority.

See also: kandidaat, kandideerimine, kandideerija.