Legislative Impact Analysis and Parliamentary Research Services

Today, I am honored to share you about an important topic that often goes unnoticed but plays a critical role in shaping the laws and policies that govern our society: Legislative Impact Analysis and Parliamentary Research Services.

These two components of the legislative process are of paramount importance to Parliaments as they serve as the bedrock of evidence-based policymaking, empowering lawmakers with comprehensive insights into the potential consequences of proposed legislation. By systematically assessing the economic, social, environmental, and legal ramifications, it equips legislators to make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of their constituents, minimize unintended negative consequences, and enhance transparency in the legislative process.

Our legislatures pass laws that have a direct bearing on our lives. It is essential then that laws are carefully examined. Since all laws are enacted with a stated objective, assessing how the law would achieve the said objective becomes the first step in legislative scrutiny. This requires a study of the desired and intended impacts. In addition to having the desired impact, a law also bears indirect and unintended consequences.

Good legislative practices ought to include an estimation of all possible consequences that can be anticipated before enacting a law; and also, an assessment as to whether the proposed law is the best way to address the problem at hand. This necessitates study of both the capability of a law to address the problem it is proposed to remedy, and its other foreseeable effects.

Currently in Pakistan, there is neither a mandatory nor a systematic process to conduct a full assessment of laws. Legislations in Pakistan often go un-scrutinized in their ability to achieve even the intended impact. However, it is encouraging to notice that the Committees in Pakistan’s Parliament have embarked on an unprecedented outreach, consultation and dialogue with the public. The Research Wing of the National Assembly undertakes rigorous research and assessment of the proposed and existing legislation on demand basis on a limited scale. The Research Service of the National Assembly specifically undertakes impact assessment of the budget through its dedicated team.

I must highlight that the lack of a thorough impact assessment framework for our legislations hinders our desire to undertake evidence-based decision making. we need to incorporate in the legislative procedure, a framework of legislative impact assessment that would encompass the economic, social, environmental and administrative impact of draft legislation—starting with the problem identification, laying out the policy options, impact assessment, comparing the alternatives in the light of their impact and ending with a scheduled post-enactment appraisal.

·?????? Establish International Forums for Knowledge Sharing:

In a bid to promote impact assessment across Parliaments, it is essential to create international forums or networks where parliamentary researchers and policymakers can share experiences, methodologies, and case studies related to LIA. These platforms should encourage cross-border collaboration and peer learning.

·?????? Capacity Building and Training Programs:

While the Legislative Impact Analysis is relatively a new phenomenon across many parliaments, it is essential to organize international training programs and workshops for parliamentary staff and MPs to enhance their skills in conducting LIA and using evidence in decision-making. Partner with established institutions to deliver these programs.

·?????? Exchange Programs for Researchers:

Similarly, in a bid to share knowledge and build capacity, it is essential to facilitate exchange programs that allow parliamentary researchers to work with counterparts in other countries. This provides exposure to different LIA methodologies and promotes the adoption of best practices.

?·?????? Support for Developing Nations:

In our quest to project and promote the LIA, the developed countries should provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to parliaments in developing countries to help them establish effective LIA processes. International cooperation can help bridge the capacity gap.

·?????? Regular Conferences and Workshops:

The capacity building and shared commitment also requires to organize regular international conferences and workshops dedicated to LIA and evidence-based policymaking. These events can facilitate networking and knowledge exchange.

?·?????? Joint Research Initiatives:

We need to initiate joint research initiatives on global challenges, such as climate change, healthcare, or economic stability, where the findings can inform policy decisions at both national and international levels.

·?????? Collaborative Research Projects:

The onus is on us, the parliamentary researchers to encourage collaboration on research projects between parliaments, research institutions, and universities from different nations. These projects can focus on common challenges and produce valuable insights.

?Conclusion

Legislative Impact Analysis is indispensable for parliaments seeking to make informed decisions, minimize negative consequences, and maintain public trust. Its practice varies across countries, adapting to unique needs and priorities. Promoting and enhancing LIA globally can lead to more effective and responsive governance, ultimately benefiting citizens and democratic institutions.