Dimension: 1.3.6 Debate
This dimension concerns arrangements for parliamentary debate. The right to debate is universally considered one of the most critical rights of MPs in a democratic system. Debate Debate A discussion in which the arguments for or against a subject are presented according to specific rules. In the parliamentary context, debate is a mechanism by which a chamber deliberates on matters under consideration and provides members with the opportunity to publicly register their support for, or rejection of, an idea based on the priorities of their constituency and/or party. provides MPs with the opportunity to publicly declare their support for or rejection of an idea, policy or act based on the priorities of their constituency and/or party, and to oversee the actions of executive by discussing matters relating to government proposals, programmes and services. It is also the mechanism by which a chamber deliberates on matters under consideration, and enables MPs to be informed so that they can make a decision. Debate Debate A discussion in which the arguments for or against a subject are presented according to specific rules. In the parliamentary context, debate is a mechanism by which a chamber deliberates on matters under consideration and provides members with the opportunity to publicly register their support for, or rejection of, an idea based on the priorities of their constituency and/or party. can occur within committees or in full plenary. This dimension deals specifically with plenary debate.
It is important for parliament to have rules of procedure for structuring and regulating debate, which should be clearly understood and impartially applied to all MPs regardless of party affiliation. They should allocate time for debate and give MPs the ability to table motions and determine the order of motions tabled, to make comments for the record, to propose amendments, to raise points of order and to hold open a debate. There should also be legislative rules to ensure that debate can take place in an orderly and respectful way with members being able to express their views freely.
MPs should be allotted adequate time and opportunity for debate ahead of a scheduled vote, to ensure that all sides are equally able to contribute on a proposed matter, and for citizens to contact their MP regarding the pending legislation.
Aspiring goal
Assess your parliament against this dimension
Assessment criteria
No 1: Rules of procedure
Parliament’s rules of procedure clearly define MPs’ powers in relation to debate. They give MPs the ability to table motions and determine the order of motions tabled, to make comments for the record, to propose amendments, to raise points of order and to hold open a debate.
No 2: Time allocation
Ample time is allocated for debate on issues, legislation and other matters.
No 3: Transparency
Debates are open to the public in-person and virtually, and official records of debates are published in a timely manner.
No 4: Impartiality
Debate is conducted in manner consistent with parliament’s rules of procedure, which are impartially applied by the Speaker to all MPs regardless of party or group affiliation.
How to complete this assessment
This dimension is assessed against several criteria, each of which should be evaluated separately. For each criterion, select one of the six descriptive grades (Non-existent, Rudimentary, Basic, Good, Very good and Excellent) that best reflects the situation in your parliament, and provide details of the evidence on which this assessment is based.
The evidence for assessment of this dimension could include the following:
- Provisions of parliament’s rules of procedure on the structuring and regulation of debate
- Constitutional provisions that indicate the important role of MPs in debating legislative priorities
- Parliamentary practice related to debate, such as rulings by the Speaker Speaker The highest authority and principal presiding officer of the parliament, or of the house or chamber in bicameral parliaments. The Speaker is usually an MP elected at the beginning of each convocation by fellow MPs to preside over the parliamentary chamber or, in a unicameral system, to preside over the parliament.
Where relevant, provide additional comments or examples that support the assessment.
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The assessment of indicators involves diagnosing and considering strengths and weaknesses, i.e. the things parliament is doing well, and the things it could do better or more effectively, taking into account established good practices that are described in the indicators.
Read the assessment guidance to find out what to consider when conducting an assessment against the Indicators. Find out how to prepare, how to set the objectives of the assessment, how to organize the process, and more. Contact the project partners for expert advice.
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