Modern Parliaments in Practice: Leadership, Communication, and Strategic Data Use

This book captures key insights from the 2023 Legislative and Management Training Program at Northern Illinois University (NIU), attended by staff of the Secretariat General of the DPR RI. It is structured around five interconnected themes essential for modern parliamentary institutions: managing emotional dynamics in the workplace, authentic leadership, strategic public communication, institutional memory, and big data governance. Each section combines scholarly frameworks with real- world practices, offering actionable reflections for strengthening institutional capacity and democratic resilience. The first section explores emotional labor as a strategic resource, highlighting how emotional intelligence, empathy, and stress management are central to sustaining public service performance. The leadership section reframes leadership as a relational and value-driven practice, emphasizing self-awareness, ethical clarity, and inclusive decision-making. The chapter on public relations advocates for two-way communication between parliament and citizens to enhance transparency and trust. Institutional memory is presented not merely as archival preservation but as a tool for learning and continuity. Finally, the book outlines how data- informed governance—when grounded in ethics and collaboration—can elevate legislative effectiveness. Overall, the volume invites public institutions to lead with humanity, vision, and strategic insight.