How Legislation is Drafted and Enacted in Bangladesh
* Legal Editor, Commonwealth Law Bulletin, Commonwealth Secretariat, London; g.murphy{at}commonwealth.int.
The creation of laws is the most direct and powerful legislative tool available to governments to fulfill their political mandate. Not surprisingly, the drafting and enactment of legislation in many Commonwealth countries often follow the same general pattern as that established by the United Kingdom. Nevertheless, each country adds a sprinkling of local flavour and custom to its own practices. What follows is an overview of the legislative process in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, highlighting the various distinct stages involved in the making of laws—such as developing policy, drafting legislation, presenting proposed laws to Parliament, final approval by the president, and publication in the Official Gazette. Comparisons are also made with the Canadian and United Kingdom legislative drafting experience where appropriate.