What is it about?
More and more parliaments are introducing codes of conduct in an effort to get MPs to adhere to high - and consistent - standards of behaviour. This article sets out conditions for success, and examines whether these conditions are present in democratising contexts, particularly in Eastern Europe and with a case study on Georgia.
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Why is it important?
Codes of conduct are not magic bullets that eradicate corruption or bad behaviour, but the paper shows that the process of writing one can be important in itself. It helps to start discussions on what the public can reasonably expect of parliamentarians, as well as building up a sense of professionalism among MPs. I hope that this paper will demonstrate the benefits of starting conversations about parliamentary ethics, for both MPs and voters.
Perspectives
Whilst researching this paper, I had the opportunity to meet some remarkable and committed MPs, who are often working in really difficult conditions to try to improve standards among their peers. Taking on this role doesn't make them popular and is not an easy task. I have huge respect for them.
Dr Elizabeth David-Barrett
University of Sussex
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Nolan's Legacy: Regulating Parliamentary Conduct in Democratising Europe, Parliamentary Affairs, February 2014, Oxford University Press (OUP),
DOI: 10.1093/pa/gst049.
You can read the full text:
Resources
Background Study: Professional and Ethical Standards for Parliamentarians
A more practical guide for MPs who are trying to introduce codes of conduct or reform parliamentary standards in their parliaments.
ODIHR workshop highlights role of professional and ethical standards in maintaining public trust in parliaments
Press release on workshop with MPs from Azerbaijan, Estonia, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Sweden, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
Parliamentary Codes are Proliferating, But Do They Curb Corruption?
ACRN guest blogger Liz David-Barrett discusses the recent vogue for parliamentary codes of conduct. She argues that while codes alone are not sufficient to curb corruption, the very process of drafting a code can help parliamentarians establish common norms and ground rules - especially in democratising countries.
The Standards System in the House of Commons - Oral Evidence
Evidence given to the House of Commons Committee on Standards, Standards review sub-committee, 15 July 2014.
Parliamentary codes of conduct do not end political corruption, but they can help build a democratic political culture
Since Lord Nolan drafted his principles of public life, codes of conduct have become a key tool for parliaments around Europe seeking to build or repair their reputations. New research by Elizabeth Dávid-Barrett suggests that, although codes do not necessarily prevent corruption, the process of writing them helps to build a democratic culture and attract high-calibre individuals into public life.
Oral evidence to Select Committee on Standards
Session of House of Commons Select Committee on Standards at which I gave evidence (from 10:14:30) for the inquiry on the Code of Conduct. March 2016
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