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

  • There are clearly defined provisions on the taking-up and leaving of office by MPs, and on the duration of MPs’ term of office.
  • Duly elected MPs are entitled to participate fully in the proceedings of parliament. 
  • Clear, formal provisions are in place for MPs who wish to voluntarily resign from office.
  • The situations in which an MP can be removed from office before their term expires are limited, specific and precisely defined.
  • Individual MPs cannot lose their seat as a result of expressing views that differ from those of their political party.
  • Parliament has clear and impartial rules and procedures governing cases where an MP leaves their political party during their term of office.
No 3: Non-partisan administration

A clear distinction exists between non-partisan staff serving parliament itself, and partisan staff who support individual members and parties.

No 2: Management

The parliamentary administration is overseen by a non-partisan, objective individual or office, such as a Secretary General, who is exclusively appointed or elected by, and accountable to, parliament.

No 1: Legal framework

The legal framework provides for parliament’s administrative autonomy, enabling parliament to organize and staff its administration independently and to exercise effective control over the precincts in which its premises are located.

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

  • An independent parliamentary administration allows parliament to operate as an effective, capable, well-staffed and well-resourced institution.
  • The parliamentary administration is housed exclusively within, and is directed under the sole authority of, the legislative branch. It manages its apparatus and structural units and staff independently.
  • Parliament has effective authority and control over the precincts in which its premises are located.
  • The parliamentary administration is non-partisan. Staff work in accordance with the administrative procedures outlined in the rules of procedure and corresponding regulations, and their services are equally accessible to all MPs and parliamentary party groups. A clear distinction exists between partisan and non-partisan staff.
     
No 3: Budget management and scrutiny

Parliament has the expertise and resources to use its funds effectively. Management of the parliamentary budget is subject to regular scrutiny through internal audits and an external, independent supreme audit institution.

No 2: Resources

The parliamentary budget provides parliament with the financial resources needed to effectively carry out its mandate. This budget is sufficient to allow parliament to pay MPs’ compensation, hire staff, develop and finance non-partisan analysis and oversight offices, ensure the security of parliament, invest in technology and infrastructure, procure supplies and equipment, and acquire other assets and resources as necessary for its operations.

No 1: Legal framework

The legal framework establishes parliament’s autonomy over its own budget, including the authority to approve and manage this budget independently from the executive.

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

  • The budget to fund parliament’s activities and operations is clearly separated from the government budget. Parliament has the authority to debate and approve its budget and is solely responsible for its management.
  • The budget provides parliament with the resources its needs to fund its offices, equipment, staff and security measures.
  • Management of the parliamentary budget is subject to regular scrutiny through internal or external audits that are independent of the executive. 
     
No 4: Non-partisan implementation

Parliamentary procedures are implemented in a non-partisan manner. The Speaker upholds compliance with those procedures. MPs from different parliamentary parties, factions and other affiliations are treated equally and impartially.

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