Law
The Role of Parliamentary Privilege in Safeguarding Legislative Independence
Quick fact
In most parliamentary systems, a member of parliament cannot be sued for defamation over anything said during parliamentary proceedings, even if it would be libelous outside the chamber. This absolute protection ensures that legislators can openly question ministers and expose wrongdoing.
Why this is interesting
You’ve probably heard that MPs can say almost anything in Parliament without being sued. But why would a modern democracy grant such a powerful immunity—and what does it protect?