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A. LAUNCH OF PDRC-28TH JUNE 2024
· The establishment of the Parliamentary Development Research Center (PDRC) under the Parliamentary Development Unit (PDU) is crucial for enhancing the legislative capabilities of the Provincial Assembly of Punjab. The PDRC aims to provide Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) with: -
a. comprehensive research support.
b. legislative drafting assistance including resolutions, motions, calling attention notices and questions.
c. policy analysis.
d. It aims to promote informed decision-making, improve legislative quality, and ensure effective parliamentary oversight.
e. The PDRC will serve as a vital resource for the Members of the Punjab Assembly, enabling them to address complex policy issues with evidence-based solutions, thus fostering transparency, accountability, and good governance.
FUNCTIONS OF PDRC
· Research Briefs; Background Papers
· Talking Points; Country Profiles; Comparative Studies; Preparation of Fact Sheets etc., for support during Debates; and
· Provision of requisite statistics and data, for the consumption of the Members.
· Research input / support to delegations for Parliamentary engagements including committee proceedings, workshops, seminars and conferences.
· Preparation of Legislative Briefs on Bills.
B. STRUCTURED INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME ORIENTATION SESSION-24TH JUNE 2024
PDU has taken the initiative to introduce the first-ever paid and structured internship program within the Punjab Assembly.
C. BUDGET TRAINING SESSION OF MPA’S-7TH JUNE 2024
The training workshop was organised by the European Unions programme Mustehkam Parlimaan. Speaking on the occasion, Acting Governor Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan said that the purpose of the training workshop was to brief the members of the assembly on the rules and regulations of the assembly, budget planning and the systematic process of budget formation prior to the budget session. In the workshop, members were informed about the constitutional provisions related to the budget-making process.
1. MINORITIES DAY IN THE PUNJAB ASSEMBLY
i. The Punjab Assembly made history on August 11’ 2024 by convening a special session to celebrate National Minorities Day within the House. Facilitated by PDU, the Session was graced by foreign dignitaries, sitting ministers, and dedicated minority rights activists, along with Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs).
ii. The gathering provided a unique platform for a constructive discussion on minority rights, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and representation in governance.
iii. A key highlight of the event was the unanimous adoption of a resolution to establish a Minority Rights Caucus, which will focus on protecting and advancing the rights of minorities within the legislative framework of the Punjab Assembly.
iv. The event underscored the Punjab Assembly's commitment to fostering a more inclusive society and ensuring that the voices of all communities are heard within the legislative process.
v. The Speaker, Punjab Assembly also presented shields and certificates to Youth Development Foundation Representatives on the occasion.
2. LAUNCH OF THE OPEN ASSEMBLY DIALOGUE SERIES
The Open Assembly Dialogue Series, initiated by the Parliamentary Development Unit, aims to foster meaningful discussions and enhance engagement with society by addressing crucial issues affecting communities.
Following the inaugural dialogue on the annual budget, the second installment (on the 5th of September) delved into the topic of local governments in Punjab, emphasizing the importance of effective governance and citizen participation in shaping local policies and services.
A collaboration between the Parliamentary Development Unit (PDU) Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI), this talk aimed to enhance the capacity and understanding of legislators concerning local governance.
This initiative was organized in anticipation of forthcoming legislation regarding local governance in the Assembly and aims to provide a vital platform for Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) to deepen their understanding of this important subject. It was Attended by nearly 150 participants-Approximately 80 MPA’s and 60 Members of civil society.
3. ORIENTATION ON WOMEN PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS WITH AN INFORMATION EXCHANGE WITH THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY (9TH/10TH SEPTEMBER)
The Parliamentary Development Unit, in collaboration with UN Women Pakistan has organised a 2-day Learning Exchange Workshop for A Woman Parliamentary Caucus in the Punjab Assembly. The exchange included members and staff from the National Assembly who provided a detailed orientation to a select group of Members and Secretariat Staff of the Punjab Assembly.
4. SIGNING OF MOU WITH THE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION
PDU hopes to continue its collaboration with YDF towards a more inclusive and diverse Assembly that not only protects but puts their interests at the forefront of House Business.
5. INTERNATIONAL GIRL CHILD DAY
The 2024 International Day of the Girl theme is ‘Girls’ vision for the future’. Punjab Assembly lit up in Pink to symbolise its commitment to this year’s theme to convey both the need for urgent action and persistent hope, driven by the power of girls’ voices and vision for the future.
6. LAUNCH OF THE AMENDED RULES OF PROCEDURE
In a landmark session, the Punjab Assembly enacted a series of progressive amendments to its Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business, bringing the institution in closer alignment with international legislative standards and democratic norms.
The amendments, adopted unanimously, strengthen legislative processes, accountability mechanisms, and transparency initiatives, reflecting the Provincial Assembly of Punjab’s commitment to evolving with the demands of modern parliamentary governance. The new provisions aim to:
- Empowering committees
- Delegation of speaker’s powers, unprecedented in Pakistan’s history
- Mandatory women representation in committees
- A committee on delegated legislation and enhanced role of law reforms committee including the implementation of 18th amend and devolution of power and authority under the amendment [see committee rules]
- Enhance the role of standing committees in providing oversight on government policies and expenditures, including a newly introduced post-budget discussion mechanism.
- Introduce transparency by mandating live streaming of Assembly proceedings and uploading all committee reports online, ensuring that the public remains informed and engaged with legislative activities.
- Introduce a comprehensive Code of Conduct to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability among Members, thereby ensuring greater public trust in the Assembly’s workings.
- Introduce cross-party Parliamentary forums within the Rules of Procedure.
7. ESTABLISHMENT OF CROSS-PARTY FORUMS:
Several caucuses have been established based on Members' input and interests, promoting focused deliberations on critical issues. These include:
· Sustainable Development Goals Task Force
· Women Parliamentary Caucus
· Minority Caucus
· Local Governments Caucus
· Border Areas Parliamentary Caucus
· Green and Disaster Risk Reduction
8. SINDH ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT VISIT TO PDU
A 5-member delegation from the Sindh Assembly, led by the Sindh Assembly Secretary General was hosted by PDU in the Punjab Assembly. The visit served as a learning exchange as the delegation was briefed on the structure and operations of the Parliamentary Development Unit.
