The OSCE's Parliamentary Diplomacy in Central Asia and the South Caucasus in Comparative Perspective

This paper begins by defining the terms "transgovernmentalism," "parliamentary diplomacy" & "international parliamentary institution" (IPI). These definitions clarify the relevance of those terms & concepts to understanding the particular characteristics of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE-PA) & the phenomenon that it represents. With those terms of reference set, the paper proceeds to discuss the OSCE-PA as an IPI, briefly recounting its institutional history & establishing the bases for comparing it with other IPIs. Next, the paper sets out the activity of the OSCE's parliamentary diplomacy, through its Parliamentary Assembly, in Central Asia & the South Caucasus. It then sets out the similar activity of other Euro-regional IPIs in order to provide comparative perspective. Subsequently it examines the OSCE-PA's institutional development also in this same comparative perspective. It concludes by taking note of the most recent developments of OSCE-PA's activity in Central Asia & the South Caucasus, & also the most recent developments in Central Asia & the South Caucasus pertinent to that activity. The final remarks include some general considerations about IPIs in the world today, relating them to the OSCE-PA's present, past & potential future activity. Adapted from the source document.