Dimension: 1.4.3 Presidium

This dimension concerns the provisions defining the composition and mandate of the collective governing body of parliament (the “presidium”). The presidium is typically responsible for organizing the work of parliament, coordinating the work of committees, drafting the agenda for plenary sessions, and deciding on other operational issues of importance.

The presidium is usually representative of the political configuration of parliament, with the majority and minority parties represented. It is generally chaired by the Speaker Speaker The highest authority and principal presiding officer of the parliament, or of the house or chamber in bicameral parliaments. The Speaker is usually an MP elected at the beginning of each convocation by fellow MPs to preside over the parliamentary chamber or, in a unicameral system, to preside over the parliament. and often includes the Deputy Speaker Speaker The highest authority and principal presiding officer of the parliament, or of the house or chamber in bicameral parliaments. The Speaker is usually an MP elected at the beginning of each convocation by fellow MPs to preside over the parliamentary chamber or, in a unicameral system, to preside over the parliament. (s), the chairs of parliamentary committees and the leaders of political groups. The Secretary General Secretary General Typically the most senior permanent officer of parliament, who advises on procedure and records the decisions of the house. This person is also usually the administrative head of the parliamentary administration. In some institutions, the role of Secretary General and the responsibilities listed here may be performed by more than one individual or by several offices of jurisdiction. of parliament, though not a formal member of the presidium, usually attends its meetings.

The frequency and timing of presidium meetings differ across parliaments and are often established by parliament’s rules of procedure. The frequency of presidium meetings is usually an indicator of its importance.

Presidium Presidium The collective governing body of parliament. Its composition varies among countries. The presidium might consist of individuals such as the Speaker Speaker The highest authority and principal presiding officer of the parliament, or of the house or chamber in bicameral parliaments. The Speaker is usually an MP elected at the beginning of each convocation by fellow MPs to preside over the parliamentary chamber or, in a unicameral system, to preside over the parliament. and Deputy Speaker Speaker The highest authority and principal presiding officer of the parliament, or of the house or chamber in bicameral parliaments. The Speaker is usually an MP elected at the beginning of each convocation by fellow MPs to preside over the parliamentary chamber or, in a unicameral system, to preside over the parliament. (s), but could also include a board with political responsibilities that brings together leaders from the different parliamentary (party) groups. In bicameral systems, each chamber usually has its own governing bodies. meetings may be public – and broadcast and/or live-streamed – or closed. Both practices are observed across countries.