Parliament and Democracy in the 21st Century: Canada and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association

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Most observers consider that modern Parliaments have three main functions which are identified as the legislative function (including participation in the making of public policy through lawmaking and parliamentary enquiries); oversight (carried out mainly, but not exclusively, by the "loyal opposition"); and representation (which allows members to address the problems of their constituents and promote their interests). One unfortunate feature of modern life is widespread disillusion with the process of government, with the institution of Parliament and with the way Parliamentarians carry out these functions.

One aim of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association is to counteract this attitude by developing strategies to strengthen parliaments and their members. This is done in part by providing …