Mechanisms for Improving Interparliamentary Cooperation in the Post-Soviet Space

Abstract

The study examines the potential of the inter-parliamentary institutions of the Collective Security Treaty Organization, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the Eurasian Economic Union in terms of their contribution to the formation of a collective security and stability system in the region in the context of global transformation. Aim. The goal is to explore the key mechanisms for developing inter-parliamentary cooperation in the po st-Soviet space, followed by the development of practical recommendations for their optimization. Tasks. The objectives include: analyzing the institutional architecture and legal framework of key inter-parliamentary institutions in the post-Soviet space; identifying systemic limitations and challenges that reduce the effectiveness of inter-parliamentary cooperation in the field of security; and identifying potential and d eveloping specific proposals for institutional reforms aimed at increasing the binding nature of decision-making. Methods. The research methods used include the analysis of documents underlying the interaction between states to ensure security; the comparison of the powers of the IPAs of the studied associations; the in stitutional approach for studying inter-parliamentary structures as formal institutions with rules, norms, procedures, and practices; and the systemic approach for considering inter-parliamentary cooperation as a subsystem of the broader system of international relations in the post-Soviet space. Results. The study identifies systemic limitations that hinder the full implementation of the IPI’s mandates, such as the lack of binding nature of the decisions made and the differences in the political priorities of the participating countries. The practical significance of the study lies in the development of a set of specific recommendations aimed at improving the effectiveness of inter-parliamentary cooperation. Key proposals include strengthening monitoring mechanisms, developing specialized working groups on current threats, unifying standards for monitoring activities, and formalizing approaches to reporting. Conclusions. The inter-parliamentary institutions of Eurasia have significant but unrealized potential in the field of security, the strengthening of which requires deep institutional reforms. The key areas are strengthening the legal status of decisions through mandatory ratification mechanisms and creating a monitoring system, as well as strengthening coordination with executive authorities. Implementing these measures will create a sustainable collective security system that can adequately respond to current challenges.