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.
Quorum rules are consistently implemented in practice.
Parliament’s rules of procedure define the powers of MPs to request a quorum to verify if the number of MPs present is lower than the minimum needed to conduct parliamentary business.
The legal framework defines the minimum number of MPs who must be present in order for parliamentary business to be conducted in the event of a quorum call.
The agendas for sessions are published well in advance, giving MPs sufficient time to prepare.
All MPs have the right to participate in agenda-setting in accordance with parliament’s rules of procedure, including to propose agenda items. Agenda-setting provisions are applied consistently in practice.
Sessions are determined by the parliamentary leadership or special committees as set out in the rules of procedure. Extraordinary sessions, and sittings convened using urgent procedures, are convened in accordance with the rules, and only when required for public-interest reasons.
The legal framework specifies a maximum number of days within which parliament must meet for its first session following an election, and establishes that parliament meets at regular intervals in order to exercise its core functions.
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Delve into the Indicators for Democratic Parliaments, assess current capacity and practice in parliament, and start tracking progress towards the aspiring goals.
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.