riigivalitsuse

Riigivalitsus is the executive branch of the Republic of Estonia, comprising the Prime Minister and ministers and led by the Prime Minister. It is responsible for setting government policy, proposing legislation, and administering state administration through the ministries and national agencies. The Government oversees the implementation of laws, prepares the state budget, and conducts domestic and foreign policy in accordance with the Constitution and parliamentary decisions.

Formation and appointment follow constitutional procedures. The President appoints the Prime Minister on the basis of parliamentary support and, on the Prime Minister’s proposal, appoints the other ministers. Governments are typically formed by coalitions or parties with a parliamentary majority. The riigivalitsus must enjoy the confidence of the Riigikogu and can be dismissed by a vote of no confidence or replaced after elections.

Relation to other state powers is defined by accountability and balance. The riigivalitsus is responsible to the Riigikogu, which can approve or reject proposed legislation and express or withdraw confidence. The President has a largely formal role in appointing the Prime Minister and ministers, while day-to-day policy is directed by the riigivalitsus in coordination with the Parliament.

Organization and support infrastructure include the Riigikantselei (State Chancellery), which coordinates legislation, administrative reform, and communications. Ministries such as Finance, Education and Research, Defense, and Culture constitute the executive apparatus under the riigivalitsus and implement government policy across the public sector.

History and framework: in its modern form the riigivalitsus was reestablished after Estonia regained independence in 1991–1992, under the 1992 Constitution, shaping the current practice of executive authority in the state.