Presidential Elections in a Parliamentary Republic: Case Study of Finland

This chapter is devoted to the analysis of the role of the President in a parliamentary republic, who is popularly elected. Popular elections are considered an atypical feature of this form of government, but, nevertheless, do not change the essence of a parliamentary republic. The authors use the method of comparative analysis in their work. Using this method, the case of Finland, as one of the parliamentary republics with a popularly elected President, was analyzed. The President of Finland has greater powers than in other parliamentary republics, which is obviously a tribute to tradition. But, nevertheless, the main role in the political system of Finland is played by the parliament and the Prime Minister. The President exercises almost all powers jointly with them. The combination of the political and symbolic roles of the Finnish President creates a specific political landscape in the country. The President’s significant influence in the international arena allows him to play a leading role in diplomatic resolution of conflicts, establishing relations with other countries and strengthening interstate relations. Moreover, presidential elections become an important step in shaping the political will of the nation and defining national priorities.