The McGill University Executive Program in Parliamentary Development – Committees Course (2017) is now available.

“Parliaments are a critical component of a country’s governance system. Typically, they oversee the executive arm of the government, represent the electorate, and formulate and enact legislation. To perform these roles, parliaments need to have strong induction programs for Members and comprehensive staff development programs, along with ongoing professional development and skill-building courses to ensure effective, proactive, and responsive legislators and staff. Building the capacity of staff ensures that the demands and needs of elected representatives are met, and helps sustain parliamentary institutions for the challenges of tomorrow. At a time when public expectations for improved democracy are on the rise on the rise and executive powers are still weakening the structures of parliamentary government in many countries, it is more important than ever to build stronger parliamentary systems.

McGill University’s School of Continuing Studies, in collaboration with the World Bank and other international partners, developed a curriculum based on the findings of the capacity enhancement review conducted in 150 legislatures of the Commonwealth and La Francophonie. A focus group of senior parliamentary staff from Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, and North America analyzed the data and formulated recommendations to structure a comprehensive program for parliamentary staff that would address international, national, and regional standards while acknowledging local customs, and historical realities. The result is a Professional Development Certificate program in Parliamentary Management. This non-credit professional program consists of five expert moderated online courses, each involving a combination of live online sessions, pre-recorded videos, and moderated online discussion forums.

Resulting from support and collaboration with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, a Professional Development Certificate in Parliamentary Governance program is now offered for Members of Parliament, Senators, and other elected or appointed legislators. Them program has proven invaluable for newly-elected and seasoned Members alike.

These programs and activities aim to develop a well-trained cadre of Members, Senators, and mid- and senior-level staff to help bolster parliamentary democracy and build the legislatures of tomorrow.”