A robust framework supports and enhances the pillars. International standards, like the “Cooke ratios” of banking capital or the new Basle II accord, are part of the framework which supports and enhances the pillars. Even massive pillars have to be inspected by experts from time to time.
It is not always obvious to outsiders that parts of the structure have to be mended or rebuilt - the exterior facade can hide a rotten interior. Surveillance has to play an important part in detecting weak spots in the framework. National and international supervisors can monitor the state of the framework and should intervene if necessary.