Parliament is the centre of democratic political systems. Its core functions are lawmaking and oversight of the executive, but it also plays a role in representing citizens’ interests. In democratic systems, the people elect parliamentarians who draft and shape the rules that govern society through legislation. Parliaments can scrutinise and approve or reject government draft laws, and they can also impose sanctions such as a ‘no confidence’ motion that can lead to a government’s resignation or a General Election.

The legal framework of a parliament defines its internal structure, powers and relationships. Typically, this includes the constitution, electoral law and parliamentary rules. Parliaments worldwide can differ significantly in their size, form and function, reflecting different implementations of parliamentary democracy.

During the legislative process, MPs debate and pass new laws. Generally, the government develops draft laws, though individual members can propose bills on their own (known as Private Member Bills). A bill starts in a House of Commons chamber where it is debated and, if agreed, sent to a committee where it may be further amended. It can then be returned to the House of Commons for further consideration. If approved, it becomes a law when the monarch agrees to it.

An effective parliament depends on the motivation and participation of its MPs, as well as their skills and capacities. Supporting their work can include introducing library and information systems, developing training programs for MPs on legal drafting, strengthening university internship programmes for parliamentary committees and supporting parliamentarian-civil society partnerships on legislative issues.