💨 Abstract

In New Zealand, a unique legislative process involves drawing bills from a decorative cookie tin to ensure equal opportunities for all lawmakers. This ritual, held once every two weeks, allows bills to be debated regardless of their popularity. The tin, bought in the 1990s, contains numbered bingo tokens representing each bill. This egalitarian method contrasts with typical political gatekeeping and has resulted in significant laws, such as those legalizing marriage equality and voluntary euthanasia.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff