EXERCISE 2 – Entry Points for Public Participation in the Approval Process
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1. What formal and/or informal opportunities exist for engaging with Parliament during the budget approval stage in your country? Consider public hearings, parliamentary debates, direct meetings with MPs, or opportunities through media or civil society networks. Have you
2. How has your organization engaged with Parliament during the approval stage of the budget in your country? Reflect on both successes and challenges, and provide examples of how you’ve made your voice heard during this phase.
3. What obstacles have you faced when trying to engage with Parliament during the budget approval process? Describe specific challenges (e.g., limited access to MPs, lack of transparency) and how you have addressed, or could address, these obstacles in the future.
4. What organizations, networks, or influential actors could you collaborate with to enhance your engagement with Parliament during the budget approval stage? Consider both local and international partners, including CSOs, advocacy groups, and sectoral experts that can strengthen your efforts.
Answer Here in the Box Below
End of section 3.2
Share your impressions and contributions with other learners in the comment section provided.
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December 12, 2024
[Module 1] INTRODUCTION
Objectives
This module aims to introduce the course objectives, provide background on Public Financial Management, explore Parliament’s and CSOs’ roles in the budget process, and outline key PFM objectives and assessment tools.8
SECTION 1.1 – INTRODUCTION
SECTION 1.2 – OVERVIEW OF PFM
SECTION 1.3 – THE BUDGET CYCLE
SECTION 1.4 – PARLIAMENT AND CIVIL SOCIETY’S ROLE IN THE BUDGET CYCLE
SECTION 1.5 – GENDER RESPONSIVE BUDGETING
SECTION 1.6 – SUMMARY
SECTION 1.7 – CUMULATIVE MODULE 1 Quiz
10 questions
10 minutes
ZOOM MEETING – Civil Society Public Finance Management e-Course
2 hours
[Module 2] BUDGET FORMATION
Objectives
This module focuses on the rote of parliament and COs in budget formulation, highlighting strategic entry points for influencing budget decisions. It emphasizes early engagement in setting budget priorities and provides insights into how Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) can be incorporated into budget planning. By the end of this module, participants will have the tools to actively participate in budget formulation and advocate for inclusive, transparent fiscal policies.10
OVERVIEW OF MODULES 2 AND 3: THE EX ANTE PHASE OF THE BUDGET CYCLE
SECTION 2.1 – OVERVIEW: PARLIAMENT’S ROLE IN BUDGET FORMULATION
EXERCISE 1 – The Pre-Budget Statement
EXERCISE 2
SECTION 2.2 – PARTICIPATORY ENGAGEMENT METHODS: ENTRY POINTS FOR CSOS
SECTION 2.3 – EX-ANTE GRB: PART 1: FORMULATION PHASE
SECTION 2.4 – EXERCISE
SECTION 2.5 – SUMMARY
SECTION 2.6 – CUMULATIVE MODULE 2 QUIZ
10 questions
10 minutes
ZOOM MEETING – Civil Society Public Finance Management e-Course
2 hours
[Module 3] BUDGET APPROVAL
Objectives
In this module, we focus on the role parliament plays in the formulation of budgets and its approval; how to engage parliament on national budget and the various entry points CSOs can explore; and consider ex-ante gender-responsive budgeting.10
OVERVIEW OF MODULE 3
SECTION 3.1 – PARLIAMENT’S ROLE IN BUDGET APPROVAL
EXERCISE 1 – EBP Vs. Citizens’ Budget
SECTION 3.2 – PARTICIPATORY ENGAGEMENT METHODS: ENTRY POINTS FOR CSOS
EXERCISE 2 – Entry Points for Public Participation in the Approval Process
SECTION 3.3 – EX-ANTE GRB
SECTION 3.4 – EXERCISE 3: APPEARING BEFORE A SECTORAL COMMITTEE
SECTION 3.5 – SUMMARY
SECTION 3.6 – CUMULATIVE MODULE 2 QUIZ
10 questions
10 minutes
ZOOM MEETING – Civil Society Public Finance Management e-Course
2 hours
[Module 4] EXECUTION & EX-POST OVERSIGHT
Objectives
This module explores the role of parliament during the budget execution and audit/oversight phases, highlighting opportunities for civil society engagement. It provides practical tools for CSOs to influence budget implementation and promotes a deeper understanding of gender-responsive budgeting within these stages.7
OVERVIEW OF MODULE 4
SECTION 4.1 – PARLIAMENT’S ROLE IN BUDGET EXECUTION & AUDIT/OVERSIGHT PHASES
SECTION 4.2 – EXERCISE: PERFORMANCE AUDIT OF NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME
SECTION 4.3 – PARTICIPATORY ENGAGEMENT METHODS: ENTRY POINTS FOR CSOS IN THE EX-POST GRB
SECTION 4.4 – EXERCISE
SECTION 4.5 – SUMMARY
CUMULATIVE MODULE 4 QUIZ
8 questions
10 minutes
[MODULE 5] PUBLIC DEBT
Objectives
This final module focuses on public debt management and explores how parliament and CSOs can influence debt-related decisions. It emphasizes the importance of gender perspectives in debt management and provides key questions for advocacy and oversight, equipping participants with the knowledge to engage effectively on public debt issues.11
OVERVIEW OF SECTIONS IN MODULE 5
SECTION 5.1 – OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC DEBT
SECTION 5.2 – OVERVIEW OF THE DEBT MANAGEMENT UNIVERSE
SECTION 5.3 – CIVIL SOCIETY AND PARLIAMENT: ADVOCACY AND ENGAGEMENT AROUND PUBLIC DEBT
SECTION 5.3 – MODULE 5 EXERCISE 1
SECTION 5.4 – KEY QUESTIONS FOR CSOS AND PARLIAMENTARIANS ON PUBLIC DEBT MANAGEMENT
SECTION 5.5 – INCORPORATING INTERSECTIONALITY AND A GENDER LENS INTO PUBLIC DEBT CONSIDERATIONS
SECTION 5.6 – MODULE 5 EXERCISE
SECTION 5.7 – SUMMARY
SECTION 5.8 – CUMULATIVE MODULE 5 QUIZ
15 questions
10 minutes
ZOOM MEETING – Civil Society Public Finance Management e-Course
60 minutes
[MINI MODULE 6]
Summary
This module focuses on how participants can leverage their learning from previous modules to develop actionable initiatives in public financial management oversight. The module emphasizes the importance of collaboration among civil society organizations (CSOs) and the need to identify entry points within their respective countries’ budget processes. Key themes include enhancing public participation, understanding institutional capacities, and strengthening audit oversight. Additionally, the module also highlights the significance of data utilization and continuous engagement with state institutions to improve accountability and transparency in budget management.1
Mini-Module 6
EXERCISE 2 – Entry Points for Public Participation in the Approval Process
Upload your answers in the comment box provided belowYour answers will be shared only with the other e-course participants.
1. What formal and/or informal opportunities exist for engaging with Parliament during the budget approval stage in your country? Consider public hearings, parliamentary debates, direct meetings with MPs, or opportunities through media or civil society networks. Have you
2. How has your organization engaged with Parliament during the approval stage of the budget in your country? Reflect on both successes and challenges, and provide examples of how you’ve made your voice heard during this phase.
3. What obstacles have you faced when trying to engage with Parliament during the budget approval process? Describe specific challenges (e.g., limited access to MPs, lack of transparency) and how you have addressed, or could address, these obstacles in the future.
4. What organizations, networks, or influential actors could you collaborate with to enhance your engagement with Parliament during the budget approval stage? Consider both local and international partners, including CSOs, advocacy groups, and sectoral experts that can strengthen your efforts.
Answer Here in the Box Below
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End of section 3.2Share your impressions and contributions with other learners in the comment section provided.
11 Comments
Joseph Anicet November 16, 2024Reply
1. Au Cameroun les possibilités formelles et/ou informelles de dialogue avec le Parlement au cours de la phase d’approbation du budget son: les audiences publiques, les débats parlementaires, les rencontres directes avec les députés ou les possibilités offertes par les médias ou les réseaux de la société civile, proposition des questions orales aux parlementaire.
2- Notre organisation a collaboré avec le Parlement au cours de la phase d’approbation du budget au Cameroun en préparant en amont avec les parlementaires les questions orales. Ces questions avaient intégralement posé en session, lors du débat d’orientation budgétaire.
3- Principal obstacle que nous avons rencontrés lors de vos démarches auprès du Parlement au cours du processus d’approbation du budget est le suivant bien qu’étant invité par les parlementaires a participer à la session des débat d’orientation sans prise de parole. Nous sommes souvent bloqué à la porte par les agents de la sécurité. Il nous faut alors beaucoup justifier la raison de notre présence. ou faire appel à un parlementaire pour qu’il nous fasse entrer dans la salle.
4- Nous collaborons avec le Groupe de Référence de la Société Civile pour la transparence des finances publiques au Cameroun pour renforcer notre engagement auprès du Parlement au cours de la phase d’approbation du budget. Nous Pensons qu’il faut construire une masse critique pluri-acteurs avec les autres partenaires locaux et internationaux, notamment des OSC, des groupes de défense et des experts sectoriels qui peuvent renforcer nos efforts.Momoh1984 November 22, 2024Reply
Q1ANS. Engaging with Parliament during the budget approval stage in Sierra Leone can be done through various formal and informal opportunities:1. Formal Opportunities
– Public Hearings: Parliament often holds public hearings where citizens and organizations can present their views on the budget.– Parliamentary Debates: MPs discuss the budget in parliamentary debates, and organizations can submit position papers or statements to influence these debates.
– Direct Meetings with MPs: Organizations can request meetings with MPs to discuss their concerns and suggestions directly.
– Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO): The PBO provides technical support and analysis to MPs, and organizations can collaborate with the PBO to provide input.
2. Informal Opportunities
Media Engagement: Organizations can use media platforms to raise awareness and influence public opinion, which in turn can impact parliamentary decisions.– Civil Society Networks: Engaging with networks like the Parliament and Civil Society Organization Network (ParlCSONet) can enhance collaboration and advocacy efforts.
– Community Outreach: Engaging with local communities to gather their input and represent their views in parliamentary discussions.
Q2ANS. Children and Youth for Peace Agency-Sierra Leone (CYPA-SL) as a Civil Society Human Right based advocacy institution, Engaging with Parliament during budget approval process is through partnership and collaboration with CSO platforms:
– Public Hearings: Participating in public hearings to present their views on budget allocations for youth and children.
– Direct Meetings: Requesting meetings with MPs to discuss specific budgetary needs and concerns.
– Media Campaigns: Using media platforms to raise awareness and advocate for budgetary considerations for youth and children.
– Collaboration with CSOs: Working with other civil society organizations to strengthen their advocacy efforts.
Q3ANS. The Following Obstacles are tag to be the main challenges among others:
1. Limited Access to MPs: Difficulty in scheduling meetings with MPs due to their busy schedules.2. Lack of Transparency: Challenges in accessing detailed budget information and understanding the decision-making process.
3. Political Influence: Navigating political dynamics and ensuring that advocacy efforts are not influenced by political affiliations.
Q4ANS. In Addressing the Obstacles, the following areas are consider appropriate
– Building Relationships: Establishing strong relationships with MPs and their staff to facilitate easier access.– Advocacy Training: Providing training for staff and volunteers on effective advocacy techniques and parliamentary processes.
– Transparency Initiatives: Advocating for greater transparency in the budget process and pushing for the publication of detailed budget information.
The Following Potential Partners are
1. Local CSOs: Collaborating with other local civil society organizations to amplify advocacy efforts.
2. International Organizations: Partnering with international organizations that can provide additional resources and support.
3. Sectoral Experts: Engaging with experts in areas such as public finance management, education, and health to provide informed input on budgetary matters.
By leveraging these opportunities and addressing the challenges, CYPA-SL can enhance its engagement with Parliament and make a more significant impact during the budget approval stage.
Kimbowa Richard November 28, 2024Reply
1. Engaging with Parliament during the budget approval stage:
a. Formal Opportunities– Parliamentary Debates: MPs discuss the budget in parliamentary debates, and organizations can submit position papers or statements to influence these debates.
– Informal meetings with individual MPs or a group of them usually during breakfast meetings, where CSOs can share their inputs for their attention
b. Informal Opportunities
Use of media as part of the breakfast meetings to understand the debates, but also to follow up when they meet individual legislators at a later stage. Some media are now specialists on budget issues are able to provide opinions and viewpoints in their spaces for public consumption2. Engaging with Parliament during budget approval process is through CSO networks with sectoral committees on water, environment and natural resources; energy and minerals:
3. The main challenges
a. Difficult to have meetings with legislators as they are busy or not committed to meeting CSOs / listen to CSO views
b. Limited preparation of the positions before meeting the legislators (at times the rush is to have it done, but leaves questions on the CSO capacities in future engagements)
4. Potential Partners
1. Local sector specific CSOs through umbrella networks in water; environment and natural resources; energy, etc.

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