riigivõim

Riigivõim, in Estonian constitutional discourse, refers to the sovereign power of the state to govern and to establish binding norms within the framework of the constitution and laws. The term combines riik (state) and võim (power) and denotes the authority to act on behalf of the state, rather than a single person or institution.

In Estonia, sovereignty is understood as residing in the people, who exercise it through elections, referenda and representation. The state’s riigivõim is exercised through its constitutional organs: the legislative branch (Riigikogu), the executive (the Government led by the Prime Minister), and the judiciary. Local governments also exercise public authority within their competences, acting as the local dimension of riigivõim under national law. The President of the Republic serves as head of state with defined constitutional powers, acting within the framework of the constitution and in coordination with other branches.

A core principle connected to riigivõim is the separation of powers: legislative, executive and judicial authorities function independently, but within a system of checks and balances. This separation aims to prevent the concentration of power and to safeguard the rule of law. The concept also emphasizes that state power is constrained by constitutional rights and freedoms, and by the procedures established by law for enacting and applying public authority.

Historically, riigivõim has been developed in the Estonian constitutional order following independence in the 20th century and reform in the 1990s, with the current framework enshrining democratic governance, rule of law, and multi-level public authority as its foundation.