Modification of the classical model of parliamentarism in the context of the newest challenges of the 21st century

The classic model of parliamentarism, the main components of which are the supremacy of parliament, popular representation, the role of parliament as a public platform for political discussion and the control of the executive branch by parliament, is undergoing changes in the context of the newest challenges of the 21 st century. The author lists such challenges as the requirement for greater transparency of parliament, digitalization and professionalization of parliamentary activities. The article analyzes in detail these challenges and the responses of parliaments to them. The author concludes that today the world's parliaments are modernizing their structure, activities and functions. The classic model of parliamentarism is being modified, its traditional components are being weakened. Firstly, the prevalence of electronic forms of citizen participation in the activities of the legislature calls into question the principle of the supremacy of parliament. Secondly, the mechanism of representativeness, based on the connections of deputies with their voters in traditional forms, is gradually weakening, since direct forms of electronic democracy are actively used. Thirdly, the role of parliament as a public platform for political discussion is being eroded due to the development of the Internet and social networks, as well as new electronic forms of conveying the will of voters to deputies. Fourthly, the role of the opposition in parliament is somewhat reduced since its functions of criticism and control over the government are “intercepted” by citizens on social networks and in the implementation of various forms of electronic participation. Finally, the nature of communication between deputies and voters is changing, as interaction through digital platforms is being introduced. The conclusions the author has drawn are preliminary in nature and have no claim to universality but record only the latest trends in changing the model of parliamentarism in the contemporary world.

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