The legitimacy and representativeness of parliamentary decisions depend to a significant extent on the adequate participation of elected representatives. However, under the current Rules of Procedure of the Parliamentary Assembly, votes and elections may, in certain circumstances, take place with only a limited number of members participating.
Decisions taken by a small proportion of the Assembly or of a committee may raise questions as to their representativeness and political legitimacy. This is of particular importance in an international parliamentary institution whose decisions should reflect broad participation by representatives of its member States.
A binding quorum requiring the participation of at least half of the full membership plus one member for votes and elections in the plenary Assembly and in committees would contribute to strengthening participation, the representativeness of decisions and confidence in the work of the Assembly.
The Assembly should therefore examine the introduction of such a binding quorum and consider amending its Rules of Procedure accordingly.