Document Type : مقالات علمی -پژوهشی

Authors

1 Islamic Council Parliament

2 Allameh tabatabaei University

Abstract

This research aims to comparatively examine the position and role of the legislature in foreign policy by studying the case of Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majles) and the United States Congress. In the present era, where the complexities of international relations and geopolitical challenges have increased, the role of legislative bodies in shaping and overseeing foreign policy has become even more crucial. This study employs a descriptive-analytical method and a comparative approach to analyze the legal frameworks, structures, and mechanisms through which both institutions influence foreign policy between the years 2015 and 2023. The findings of the research show that, despite structural and legal differences, both institutions play a significant role in foreign policy through mechanisms such as ratifying international treaties (Article 77 of Iran’s Constitution), overseeing policy implementation, allocating budgets, and engaging in parliamentary diplomacy. However, the U.S. Congress, with broader legal powers—including declaring war and controlling the budget—exerts a deeper influence on foreign policy, while Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly faces multiple structural and legal limitations. This study emphasizes the importance of constructive interaction between the legislative and executive branches to improve the effectiveness of foreign policy, offering suggestions such as strengthening specialized committees and improving oversight mechanisms.

Keywords

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