Lonely Riders and Cooperation Networks: Member of Parliaments’ Private Motions in the Finnish Parliament 1999–2010

Abstract

Abstract Members’ of Parliament (MP) private motions in the Finnish parliament Eduskunta are explored. During 1999–2010, the Finnish MPs introduced nearly 20,000 motions, from which 75% turned out to be budget amendments while legislative motions constituted some 10%. Roughly half were single signer motions while the rest were sponsored by various MP combinations. Only few motions were processed in committees and even fewer got accepted. A growing amount of party motions sponsored by one party group were found. Motions sponsored by MPs from the same electoral district were found as well. A handful of motions sponsored by the absolute majority of Eduskunta were also found. Comparing the sponsor networks with the Swedish parliament, where the MPs tend to cooperate with their group comrades, reveals the Finnish MPs cooperating significantly more often over the party lines. While analyses of plenary voting primarily divide the Finnish MPs into government and opposition blocs the analysis of private motions results in a completely different pattern of cooperation. In Eduskunta matters are initiated somewhat freely while at the stage of decision party discipline steps in.