THE IMPACT OF PARLIAMENTARY OVERSIGHT MECHANISMS ON FOREIGN POLICY: A LEGAL AND DEMOCRATIC FRAMEWORK
Abstract
The impact of parliamentary oversight mechanisms on foreign policy decision-making processes is of critical importance for democratic governance and the rule of law. This research examines how parliamentary oversight tools shape the transparency, accountability, and democratic legitimacy of foreign policy within a multidimensional framework. The fundamental research question investigates the ways and extent to which parliamentary oversight mechanisms affect the content, direction, and democratic legitimacy of foreign policy. The research hypothesis posits that countries with strong parliamentary oversight mechanisms produce foreign policy decisions that are more transparent, more accountable, and more reflective of societal interests. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, incorporating panel data analysis covering twenty-eight countries, three in-depth case studies, and qualitative content analysis of parliamentary records. The theoretical framework is grounded in principal-agent theory, veto players theory, democratic peace theory, and liberal institutionalism. Findings demonstrate a strong positive relationship between parliamentary oversight capacity and foreign policy transparency. As the specialization level of foreign relations committees increases, the arbitrary action space of the executive narrows; as budget oversight intensifies, foreign policy-related costs decrease; and as parliamentary questions and investigations proliferate, executive discourse becomes more cautious and aligned with international law. Research results reveal that parliamentary oversight constitutes not merely a domestic political requirement but also a strategic advantage in terms of international credibility and cooperation. The study proposes recommendations for strengthening the institutional capacities of parliaments, developing expert support systems, and effectively utilizing digital technologies in oversight processes. The future of democratic governance depends on activating parliamentary oversight in all decision-making processes, including the foreign policy domain.
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