The importance of the OSCE ODIHR Guidelines on Democratic Law-making for Better Laws for research

What is it about?

The article, drawing on the new ODIHR Guidelines and the mainstream scholarship on the theory and practice of legislation, explain what democratic law-making means and how this perspective could open up new research avenues for scholars interesting in defending democracy.

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Why is it important?

The Guidelines can be seen as a benchmark for all actors participating in the legislative process and researchers as well. Looking at the legislative process as a cyclic one that respects the principles of the rule of law, democracy and human rights, could enhance the quality and legitimacy of both the legislative process and its results, i.e., statutes. It also could open up new(er) research focuses for those interested in democratic erosion and revival, institutional protection of the democratic legislative process, constitutional change, and the impact of constitutional rights.