Legislative Advisories and Advocacy

A legislative advisory service analyzes proposed legislation and provides simple cost/benefit assessments of its impact. This service provides a mechanism for private sector organizations to express their views on economic issues and take part in national economic policymaking. It also helps legislators make informed decisions and educates the public about economic measures being considered by its government.

In Colombia, a series of monthly policy briefs served as the basis for technical advice to the Congress and expanded public debate on legislative initiatives. Rigorous analysis was effective when followed up by frequent meetings with Congressmen and their staff.

A legislative advisory service in Ghana was distinguished by its gathering of diverse private and public perspectives in policy roundtables. The institute hosting the roundtables used them to encourage participation and to shape the recommendations published in its legislative alerts.

An association in Jordan further built a coalition of business and political leaders in order to advance discussion on the issues in its policy papers. In so doing, it brought the voice of the private sector to the policy arena.