Distance Course in Legislative Drafting for Democratic Social Change
Past Projects: Miscellaneous
Elections
Cambodia: Existing law did not ensure fair local elections
Commune-level governance fails to operate democratically. While some commune councils meet regularly and commune chiefs use their positions to promote development and conflict resolution, many use their authority to appropriate land citizens’ land. This report proposes amendments to the Election Law that would create strict guidelines for nomination and selection of members of the National Election Commission, Provincial Election Commissions, and Commune Election Commissions. The proposed solution would also institute a process for candidate registration appeals and voter registration appeals; define legal campaign processes and conduct; and specify disclosure requirements.
Environment
Italy:
Promoting the environmental responsibility of Italian companies operating abroad
The environmentally irresponsible conduct of Italian companies operating abroad damages the ecological, human, and financial prospects of the host country population and also brings the Italian people and companies into disrepute. While recognizing the host country’s sovereignty, this report proposes to require Italian companies to uphold international environmental standards even when operating in countries without laws to that effect. The proposed solution would also require Italian companies to dissolve contracts with environmentally irresponsible suppliers. Enforcement mechanisms include requirements for disclosure of environmental performance to the public, fines for infringements, and the establishment of an Environmental Corporate Accountability Board. The bill also includes an appeals system.
Vietnam: Disposal of Municipal Household Waste
Guyana: Coordinated Community Development Planning
Despite rich natural resources, citizens in Guyana suffer from poverty and lack of infrastructure. Planning authorities do not currently contribute effectively to socio-economic and physical development in Guyana. The proposed bill would address this social problem, by integrating the activities of the implementing agencies, clarifying their respective jurisdictions and responsibilities to create more participatory and effective development approaches.
St. Kitts and Nevis: Regulation of Noise Pollution in the Tourist Zone
St. Kitts has a dual interest in developing its tourist industry and protecting residents against unnecessary and excessive noise pollution. Under the existing laws, the police frequently require businesses to essentially turn off their sound systems whenever a neighbor complains. This means that residents must endure high noise levels unless and until they complain, and that businesses are sporadically, and with little notice, required to cease entertaining patrons with music. The proposed bill will establish clear volume thresholds for evening and night hours. This will ensure that residents are appropriately protected against excessive noise, and will enable businesses to regulate their volume to stay within acceptable noise levels so they can avoid economically harmful enforcement actions.
Law on Laws
Lao P.D.R.: Ordinance on legislative drafting (see Lao Ordinances)
Marriage
Ghana: Marriage Registration
Pakistan: Reducing wasteful expenditures on wedding functions
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