The Joint Staff Office serves as the central administrative and support body of the Olbiil Era Kell (OEK). It provides essential professional, logistical, and technical assistance to both the Senate and the House of Delegates, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of Palau’s national legislature.
The office functions as the backbone of the legislative institution, maintaining continuity between sessions, facilitating inter-chamber coordination, and managing day-to-day operations that allow elected members to focus on lawmaking and representation.
Mandate and Responsibilities
The Joint Staff Office operates under a unified mandate to support the OEK in carrying out its constitutional duties. Its core responsibilities include:
- Providing administrative and clerical support for both chambers
- Assisting with the preparation, formatting, and publication of bills, resolutions, and committee reports
- Managing official records, transcripts, and archives of legislative proceedings
- Coordinating communication between the Senate, House of Delegates, and the Office of the President
- Overseeing public access to legislative information and maintaining transparency in governance
- Offering research, legal drafting, and policy analysis services to legislators and committees
Leadership and Organization
The Joint Staff Office is headed by the Clerk of the Olbiil Era Kell, who serves as the principal administrative officer of the legislature. The Clerk is supported by deputy clerks, legislative counsel, and department heads who oversee divisions such as administration, finance, information technology, and public relations.
Each chamber also maintains its own staff offices that work in close cooperation with the Joint Staff to ensure consistent and coordinated service delivery across the OEK.
Legislative Research and Legal Support
A key component of the Joint Staff Office is its Legislative Research and Legal Affairs Division. This division provides nonpartisan policy research, legal drafting assistance, and technical advice to help lawmakers prepare bills and evaluate policy options. The division ensures that all legislative proposals comply with the Constitution of Palau and existing laws.
Public Engagement and Information
The office also coordinates outreach programs, such as educational visits, community consultations, and youth engagement activities, to promote civic understanding of how the legislature works.
Commitment to Service
Through its dedication, professionalism, and adherence to transparency, the Joint Staff Office plays a vital role in strengthening Palau’s democracy. By providing effective support to lawmakers and maintaining open communication with the public, it upholds the mission of the Olbiil Era Kell to serve the people of Palau with integrity and accountability.