stjórnin

Stjórnin, Icelandic for “the government,” is the collective executive authority of Iceland. It consists of the Prime Minister and ministers who head the country’s ministries and government agencies. The cabinet’s main duties include formulating and implementing domestic policy, directing public administration, and steering foreign policy, as well as proposing legislation and the budget to Alþingi, Iceland’s parliament.

Etymology and usage: In Icelandic media and political discourse, Stjórnin is used as a proper noun to refer to the current cabinet or, more generally, to the government as an institution. The term appears in phrases such as “Stjórnin samþykkti” (the government approved) or “Stjórnin leitar samkomulags” (the government seeks agreement).

Formation and stability: Governments are formed after elections or during parliamentary negotiations, often as coalitions among parties. The Prime Minister, typically the leader of the largest party or coalition partner, is appointed by the President and confirmed by Alþingi. The cabinet may change without an election if a new coalition forms or ministers resign. A government can lose its mandate through a vote of no confidence or a collapse of the coalition, prompting new negotiations or a reshuffle.

Accountability: The Stjórnin is answerable to Alþingi, which can require confidence votes. Ministers can be dismissed or replaced, and the government’s ability to govern rests on continuing parliamentary support.

See also: Icelandic politics, Alþingi, Prime Minister of Iceland, cabinet government.