Working with the Congress Working with the Congress in Argentinain Argentina

Vanesa Weyrauch

CIVICUS ASSEMBLY, June 2006

Av. Callao 25, 1° • C1022AAA Buenos Aires, Argentina - Tel: (54 11) 4384-9009 • Fax: (54 11) 4371-1221 • info@cippec.org • www.cippec.org

The type of CSO affects relationship with Congress

CIPPEC is an organisation working towards a just, democratic and efficient state that improves the quality of life of all Argentine citizens. In order to further this goal, CIPPEC analyses and promotes political policies that foment equity and growth in Argentina.

CIPPEC as an organisation in evolution: hybrid between focus on research, influence, monitoring and implementation. Diverse roles at the same time: – watchdog,– think tank, – CSO, etc.

Characteristics of Congress

Divided in two chambers: Deputies (representing people in general) and Senators (representing provinces)

Main advantage: double discussion enriches decision making process, also minimizes potential errors.

Main disadvantage: the process is frequently too long and bureaucratic

Legislators act according to political parties´ blocks, they seldom vote independently

Weak role in the main public policies (i.e. National Budget); the Executive Power rules mostly by majority or by decrees

Lobby is not regulated; low civic participation.

Mechanisms of interaction

CSOS can contribute to strengthen the Congress´ role in hiper-presidential political systems. Example: creation of CBO

CSOs can aid legislators in their decisions with research and evidence relevant to policymaking. Example: Public Policy Analysis/ Recommendations

CSOs and Congress can provide citizens with

clear and transparent information to enhance

comprehension of public policies.

Example: Budget Brief

Mechanisms of interaction

CSOS can generate information about legislators, including their affidavits, to promote accountability and contribute towards a more active citizen participation in the design, implementation and evaluation of public policies. Example: Legislative Directory.

CSOs can co-organize seminars, roundtables, discussions with legislators and/or committees. Example: Congressional Caucus to promote fiscal reforms.

Carrots and sticks: HOLD THE TENSION!