Comparative Table of Parliamentary TA Institutions

COUNCIL OF EUROPE - THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY OF THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE 

Work Procedures and Methods

THE ASSEMBLY´S PLENARY DEBATES

The annual sessions of the Assembly are divided into four part-sessions, each lasting for about a week at the end of January, April, June and the beginning of October. The agenda for each part-session features debates on European and world events, and on key matters requiring action at European level. The Assembly´s plenary debates are held in public and they are conducted according to the principles commonly observed in national parliaments.

ADOPTION OF TEXTS

The Assembly can adopt three different types of texts: recommendations, resolutions and opinions. A two-thirds majority is required for questions such as a recommendation or an opinion to the Committee of Ministers or the adoption of urgent procedure. In respect of a resolution and any other decision, a majority of the votes cast is required. Recommendations, resolutions and opinions are published in a provisional edition after their adoption. A final version is published after each part-session in the official languages (English and French).

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Committees meet most frequently either in Strasbourg or Paris, possibly in Brussels when a joint meeting with a body of the European Parliament is envisaged. Committee discussions are generally held in camera, but the committee is free to admit anybody to its meeting whom it wishes.

Although committees deal in particular with reports, they have great freedom to discuss any matter within their competence when they agree to do so. They organise hearings, colloquies or conferences on particular subjects, the findings of which can then be used for the preparation of reports to the Assembly.

DRAFTING OF REPORTS

In general, a motion for a recommendation or resolution generates reports. This motion has to be tabled by at least twenty representatives or substitutes belonging to at least five national delegations. It is then referred to a committee for report and possibly to other committees for opinion. The main committee then appoints a rapporteur who drafts a report, into two parts: Both parts are discussed in committee, but only the operational part is voted on. When a report has been adopted in the committee it is tabled for discussion by the Assembly either at a part-session or at a meeting of the Standing Committee.

 

Chapter Work Procedures and Methods - all countries

Country Report Council of Europe

 

 

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