Public infrastructure is an essential pillar for economic growth, sustainable development and the reduction of social inequalities. However, in many lower- and middle-income countries, infrastructure remains severely inadequate.

This handbook provides parliamentarians and their staff with a practical framework for overseeing large-scale infrastructure projects by providing tools, strategies and best practices. It is based on a set of key principles of effective parliamentary oversight, derived from recommendations of international organizations and international best practices, illustrated by examples. It underscores that effective oversight is not a bureaucratic impediment but a crucial function for ensuring that these massive investments deliver sustainable national development, provide value for money and avoid the pitfalls of corruption and unsustainable debt.

Annexes to this handbook are also available to download. 

Details

Publication date
23 April 2026
Language(s)
English
Number of pages
70
ISBN
978-91-8137-140-6 (PDF)
978-91-8137-141-3 (Print)

Contents

Acknowledgements

Preface

Foreword

Introduction to the Handbook

Part I: The Foundations of Effective Parliamentary Oversight of Large-scale Infrastructure Projects

Part II:  A Practical Guide to Parliamentary Oversight Acrossthe Infrastructure Lifecycle

Part III: The Parliamentary Oversight Toolkit

Part IV: Fostering a Culture of Accountability

Appendix A: Key Principles and Cornerstones for Parliamentary Oversight on Infrastructure

Appendix B: Parliamentary Oversight Readiness Assessment

Appendix C: Infrastructure Project Oversight Checklist

Appendix D: Checklist of Key Questions by Project Phase

Appendix E: Suggested Legislation for Infrastructure Oversight

Appendix F: Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

Appendix G: Risk Assessment and Early Warning Systems

Appendix H: Template for Committee Terms of Reference for an Infrastructure Project Inquiry

Appendix I: Public Engagement—Standard Operating Procedures for Parliamentary Stakeholder Consultation

Appendix J: Parliamentary Site Visit Protocol

Appendix K: Glossary of Essential Terms

Appendix L: Literature and References

About INTER PARES and WYDE

 

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Handbook for Parliamentary Oversight of Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects

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