This Reference Document is a practical tool for use in planning European Commission (EC) parliamentary strengthening programmes and to a lesser extent in engaging with parliaments(1) in development cooperation in partner countries. It is geared for use by European Union (EU) Delegation staff, both political and operations staff, but is also of use to other actors (donors, practitioners) as well as parliamentarians and parliamentary staff involved in parliamentary strengthening. The Reference Document will be complemented by training workshops on parliamentary development organized by AIDCO E4 and its partners, which will systematically address the key topics discussed and be aimed at EU staff, the staff of other donor agencies and parliamentary development practitioners.