Global democracy support
European Parliament

Overview

Fortifying parliamentary institutions worldwide

The European Parliament assists national parliaments and regional assemblies in becoming stronger democratic institutions. The support is demand-driven and based on the needs of partner parliaments. Democracy support activities are guided by MEPs, appointed as "lead members" for specific priority countries and regions.

In a time marked by global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, democratic backsliding worldwide, increased disinformation and ensuing threats to parliamentary democracy, our commitment to strengthening democratic institutions remains unwavering.

By fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, and adapting to evolving needs, the European Parliament aims to build a more resilient and inclusive democratic landscape.

  • At the heart of our support efforts lie the core functions of parliaments, encompassing representative, legislative, budgetary and oversight tasks. This work contributes to strengthening an overall functionality, effectiveness, transparency, accountability and institutional culture of partner parliaments.

    • Enlargement & Neighbourhood countries: With a renewed emphasis on reinforcing democratic institutions in the EU enlargement process, the European Parliament prioritises support to enlargement countries' parliaments and democratic forces. While focusing on accession countries, including the Western Balkans, Ukraine and Moldova, the EP extends support to parliaments in other regions based on political interest and expertise. In lines with the Comprehensive Democracy Support Approach (CDSA), partner parliaments are selected by the Democracy Support and Election Coordination Group (DEG).
    • Criteria for Engagement: Guided by EU principles and values, our engagement aligns with democratic transitions and electoral cycles, ensuring relevance and impact.


    • Strategic Partnerships: In its work, the EP cooperates closely with like-minded international, intergovernmental and non-governmental actors that promote democratic resilience and innovation. Co-ordination of democracy support activities with the EU national parliaments is ensured through the Democracy Support Network, bringing together the EU National Parliaments and the European Parliament.

Brochure on democracy support