The presence of an effective parliamentary institution is strongly correlated with the existence of a viable democracy and an open society. Such institutions are critical to the establishment and consolidation of democracy because they empower ordinary people to participate in the policies that shape their lives. Parliaments are fundamental to establishing the rule of law, protecting human rights, overseeing transparent governance processes, and ensuring national compliance with international obligations.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) currently supports one in four parliaments globally. It does so primarily in recognition of the important role these institutions play in democracy and development, but also because the existence of effective democratic oversight institutions is essential in the light of many donors shifting toward budget support as a vehicle for development assistance.