landsstýri

Landsstýri is the term used for the executive government of the Faroe Islands, encompassing the cabinet and its administrative offices. It is the central body responsible for domestic policy, administration, and the day-to-day running of public services, and it operates within the framework of the Faroe Islands’ self-government as part of the Danish Realm.

The Landsstýri is headquartered in Tórshavn, the capital, where the Landsstýri building houses the offices of the Prime Minister (Landsstýrismaður) and several government ministries. The exact composition of ministries can vary with each administration, but common areas include finance, education and culture, health and social affairs, fisheries and environment, transport, and interior affairs. Each ministry is headed by a landsstýrismaður (minister) who is appointed by the Prime Minister and approved by the Løgting, the Faroese parliament.

Historically, the Faroe Islands gained home rule in 1948, establishing the Landsstýri as the executive arm of the autonomous government. The cabinet works to implement laws passed by the Løgting, prepares budgets, and coordinates with Danish authorities on matters of defense and foreign relations, while maintaining substantial autonomy over domestic policy.

The Landsstýri operates in a parliamentary framework, with ministers forming a government that can change following elections or coalitional negotiations. It plays a central role in shaping policy across public services, economy, and social welfare while reporting to the Løgting and, ultimately, the Faroese electorate. See also: Løgting, Danish Realm.