The Imperative of Technical Cooperation in Modernising Parliamentary Governance
Written on September, 2023
Introduction
The landscape of interparliamentary cooperation has traditionally been punctuated by high-level dialogues and policy discussions. However, this focus often obscures the increasing relevance of technical cooperation as a bedrock for bolstering democratic governance. This paper critically examines the shift towards prioritising technical cooperation in various parliamentary bodies globally and argues that this form of cooperation is pivotal for operational efficacy, legislative excellence, and democratic transparency.
High-Level vs Technical Cooperation
High-level cooperation agreements often involve complex diplomatic negotiations and policy dialogues, with outcomes that might not always be immediately implementable. However, when such agreements are either supplemented or instigated at the technical level, the feasibility of these initiatives substantially improves. This suggests a symbiotic relationship between high-level and technical cooperation, where each can augment the effectiveness of the other.
Technical cooperation offers a more pragmatic approach to problem-solving. It encompasses a range of activities, from knowledge and skills transfer to sharing best practices in legislative management. The breadth of cooperation can also vary, ranging from bilateral to regional and even multilateral international relations, adding layers of complexity and opportunity.
Tools for Technical Cooperation: Beyond High-Level Dialogues
While high-level dialogues often result in memoranda of understanding or joint declarations, these tools can be abstract and far-removed from the day-to-day operations of parliamentary governance. In contrast, technical cooperation frequently utilises more grounded, practical mechanisms such as parliamentary development portals, specialised committees, and parliamentary networks that focus on specific issues like science and technology, budgeting, or ethics.
Legislative Management: A Case for Technical Cooperation
Countries in Latin America, for instance, highlight the need for technical cooperation in legislative management. The absence of models for evaluating the impact of laws, or the lack of independent budget offices, are challenges that could be addressed through technical cooperation. The sharing of best practices in these areas not only enhances the quality of legislative processes but also helps in establishing robust mechanisms for democratic accountability.
Towards a Modernised Parliamentary Governance
For technical cooperation to be effective, it is essential for parliaments to adopt strategic plans that include a chapter on modernisation, updated and maintained over time, irrespective of changes in leadership. This involves establishing priorities, as it is not feasible to address all areas simultaneously. These plans should be adaptive to new technologies, including the emerging field of artificial intelligence, and should foster a regime of rigorous ethics and transparency.
Conclusion
The move towards technical cooperation in parliamentary governance is not merely a trend but a necessity. It offers a pragmatic yet sophisticated approach to modernising legislative bodies and enhancing democratic governance. The symbiosis between high-level and technical cooperation should be recognised and leveraged to achieve the complex, multi-faceted goals of modern parliaments. The significance of international networks, strategic alliances, and practical tools should not be understated in this quest for modernisation and excellence.