The Role of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies in Enhancing Legislative Processes: A Performance Review of the Democracy and Governance Department from 2019-2023

Abstract

This paper examines the performance of the Department of Democracy and Governance Department (DDG) from 2019 to 2023, analyzing its contributions to legislative strengthening through bill analysis, policy research, and capacity-building initiatives. Using institutional output data, the study reveals fluctuating productivity trends, with peak performance in 2019 (108 bills analyzed, 138 policy briefs) followed by gradual declines, attributed to COVID-19 disruptions (2020), election cycles (2023), and systemic resource constraints. The study adopts a qualitative-dominant descriptive and evaluative case study research design, with elements of longitudinal institutional performance review. The study was situated on capacity building theory as the framework. Key findings highlight the DDG’s adaptive strategies, including expanded partnerships with international organizations (WFD, UN Women) and shifts toward gender-responsive governance programs. The paper proposes three strategic
recommendations: strengthening research outputs through academic partnerships, optimizing resource allocation via digital tools and workload assessments, and enhancing monitoring frameworks to track policy impact. These evidence-based solutions address critical gaps in parliamentary support systems while offering transferable lessons for legislative strengthening in Africa. The study contributes to broader debates about institutional resilience, evidence informed policymaking, and the role of technical units in democratic governance.