Presiding Under Pressure: Institutional Independence and Democratic Resilience in a Small State

Legislatures are often called a first line of defense for democracy, but far less attention goes to how they actually hold that line when the pressure is on. In small states, where executives tend to be strong and political communities are close, the independence of Parliament depends heavily on procedure, precedent, and the judgment of those who preside over it. Drawing on his years as President and Vice-President of the Senate of Trinidad and Tobago, Nigel de Freitas will examine how a legislature maintains its autonomy from the executive, what a presiding officer can and cannot do when procedure becomes strategic maneuvering, and where the real pressure points in a Westminster system sit. The talk connects these experiences to wider debates on institutional resilience, offering a view that rarely appears in comparative data: the view from the chair. Students and faculty from all programs are welcome, and there will be time for questions.
In-person attendance is highly encouraged. If you are unable to join in person, you may join on Zoom here: https://ubalt.zoom.us/j/95036198944

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