No 4: Revision of the rules

The rules of procedure are subject to periodic review and proposals for amendments by MPs, typically through a procedure committee. 

No 3: Implementation and interpretation

The rules of procedure are implemented and interpreted consistently. Past practices and interpretations are documented and made available to MPs and the public.

No 2: Scope

Parliament’s rules of procedure are consistent with the legal framework and codify all procedural aspects of parliamentary business.

No 1: Autonomy to set own rules of procedure

Parliament has the authority to independently adopt and amend its rules of procedure. 

Based on a global comparative analysis, an aspiring goal for parliaments in the area of “rules of procedure” is as follows:

  • Parliament has clear and comprehensive rules of procedure, which are introduced, adopted and amended by parliament alone. They are subject to regular review and amendment.
  • The rules of procedure codify all procedural aspects of parliamentary business. They are expressed in plain and easy-to-understand language and are publicly available.
  • The rules of procedure are interpreted consistently and impartially. Past practices and interpretations are documented and made available to MPs and the public.

Based on a global comparative analysis, an aspiring goal for parliaments in the area of “gender and age balance in parliamentary bodies” is as follows:

  • Parliament takes measures to promote the equitable representation of women and young MPs in all parliamentary bodies, including in leadership positions.
  • MPs of different genders and ages are equitably represented in parliamentary leadership positions, including among committee chairs and vice-chairs.
  • Parliament monitors and reports on gender and age balance in the composition and leadership of parliamentary bodies.

Based on a global comparative analysis, an aspiring goal for parliaments in the area of “composition of committees” is as follows:

  • There are clear, fair and transparent rules and procedures for determining membership of committees and for the selection or election of committee leadership roles.
  • Special consideration is given to small political groups and independent MPs in order to ensure their representation in committees.
  • The expertise and interests of MPs are taken into consideration when assigning committee roles.
  • The composition of committees and committee leadership roles reflects that of parliament as a whole.

Based on a global comparative analysis, an aspiring goal for parliaments in the area of “composition of governing bodies” is as follows:

  • The principles for the composition of parliament’s governing bodies are clearly set out in the legal framework and/or parliament’s rules of procedure. These provisions guarantee the representation of all political groups in the governing bodies and ensure an appropriate balance between them.
  • Parliament reserves leadership positions, such as at least one Deputy Speaker role, for the opposition or political minority groups.

Based on a global comparative analysis, an aspiring goal for parliaments in the area of “representation of other underrepresented groups” is as follows: 

  • The legal framework guarantees the right of all people, including underrepresented groups, to take part in the conduct of public affairs, including the right to vote and to stand for office, without discrimination.
  • Parliament has adopted special measures to promote the representation of underrepresented groups in parliament, such as quotas and reserved seats.
  • Parliament’s rules of procedure provide opportunities for MPs representing minority groups to participate actively in the work of parliament. 

Based on a global comparative analysis, an aspiring goal for parliaments in the area of “representation of youth” is as follows:

  • The legal framework establishes that the minimum age of eligibility to run for political office is the same as the minimum voting age.
  • Legislative and policy measures are taken to promote youth representation in parliament.
  • Parliamentary bodies, such as committees, caucuses or networks of young MPs, are mandated to address youth issues.  
  • There is an enabling environment for young MPs in parliament, including the availability of training and mentoring.

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