This indicator concerns the inclusiveness of parliament in terms of its institutional practices. It recognizes that, if parliament is to be effective in representing the community and holding the executive to account on behalf of citizens, it must itself be inclusive as an institution.

In its law-making, oversight and budgeting functions, parliament should reflect the diverse interests of the people it serves. Inclusive parliamentary practices strengthen democracy, promote integration and prevent conflicts.

This indicator concerns parliament’s openness and responsiveness to public concerns, which is key to building trust in the institution. Parliaments are expected to be receptive to concerns raised by the public and to address these issues in a timely and effective manner.

This indicator concerns physical access for the public, persons with disabilities and the media to the proceedings of parliament, wherever they take place. It covers access to all parliamentary venues, such as the parliamentary building, the plenary chamber(s) and committee meeting rooms, including for persons with disabilities, as well as to events organized on or off the parliamentary premises.

This indicator concerns the approach that parliament takes to institutional communication and outreach. Communicating with the public about what parliament does is a basic condition for people to be able to understand and even participate in parliamentary work.

This indicator, which concerns parliamentary transparency, is based on the premise that the public should be able to understand and engage with parliament, and be informed about, observe or participate in parliamentary processes.

In democratic systems of government, parliament is often seen as the nation’s highest institution. It is therefore essential for parliament to lead by example on institutional integrity, and to uphold the highest standards and values in its operations.

This indicator concerns various aspects of the institutional integrity that parliaments should aspire to achieve. These include accountability for the expenditure of parliamentary funds, and transparent procurement procedures. It also includes parliament’s responsibilities with regard to freedom of information legislation.

This indicator concerns parliamentary ethics, i.e. the standards of conduct that parliament as a whole, and MPs individually, are expected to follow both within and outside the parliamentary chamber.

It addresses professional and ethical standards spanning aspects including anti-corruption, conflicts of interest, codes of conduct, lobbying, and the disclosure of parliamentary income and expenditure.