As the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference unfolds in Accra, Ghana, Stephen Twigg, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), emphasizes the pivotal impact Parliamentarians can have. In a world grappling with diverse challenges, the imperative of sharing best practices and knowledge among Commonwealth Parliaments and Parliamentarians has never been more pronounced. Since its inception over a century ago, the CPA has remained resolute in its mission to cultivate and augment the capabilities of Commonwealth Parliamentarians.
A Legacy of Progress: 112 Years of CPA’s Mission
For over a century, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association has been dedicated to advancing and refining the skills of parliamentarians. This annual conference stands as a testament to the CPA’s commitment to addressing pressing global political issues. Through meticulously curated workshops and sessions, Parliamentarians from diverse Commonwealth Parliaments and Legislatures convene to navigate the intricacies of the parliamentary system.
A Milestone in Ghana: Hosting the 66th Conference
This year marks a historic occasion as the CPA Ghana Branch and the Parliament of Ghana jointly host the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Accra. The CPA Africa Region, a dynamic force within our nine Regions, proudly hosts the conference for the 17th time. This conference, being one of the largest gatherings of Commonwealth Parliamentarians, revolves around the central theme: ‘The Commonwealth Charter 10 years on: Values and Principles for Parliaments to uphold’.
The ten-year anniversary of the Commonwealth Charter presents an invaluable opportunity to evaluate the applicability of its core values and principles. The CPA, as the parliamentary wing of the Commonwealth, draws significant inspiration from various articles within the Charter. Notably, Article I on Democracy, Article II on Human Rights, and Article VII on the Rule of Law serve as pillars guiding the CPA’s work.
Charting the Course: Influencing Networks and Youth Engagement
The Commonwealth Charter’s influence extends beyond Parliamentarians to various networks within the CPA. From empowering Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians to recognizing the unique needs of Small States, the Charter shapes the direction of our endeavors. Moreover, it underscores the significance of involving young people, as emphasized in Article XIII.
The annual conference offers Parliamentarians and their staff a platform for professional growth, mutual learning, and the exchange of best practices. Against the backdrop of global challenges, this event provides a crucial opportunity for MPs to unite, reinforcing the understanding of our shared responsibility in a globally interconnected world.
Aligning with UN SDGs: A Commitment to Sustainable Development
In this pivotal midpoint of the 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development, the CPA remains dedicated to instilling the values of both the Commonwealth and the UN SDGs across our membership and beyond. While our focus predominantly centers on SDG16, encompassing peace, justice, and strong institutions, we’re equally committed to enabling Parliaments to actively contribute to the attainment of all SDGs.
With nearly 60% of the Commonwealth’s 2.6 billion citizens under the age of 30, the CPA, particularly in the Africa Region, has a duty to engage proactively with young people. Initiatives like the Commonwealth Youth Parliament exemplify our commitment to fostering the participation of the youth.
Parliaments serve as the voice of the people, and their strength lies in inclusivity, accountability, openness, and transparency. These attributes are fundamental in representing the interests of the citizens they serve.
Combatting Climate Change: A Collective Imperative
A paramount priority for the Commonwealth is the fight against climate change. Small Island Developing States, often at the forefront of this battle, find support and advocacy within the Commonwealth. Together, we strive to amplify the voices calling for urgent action in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.
In an era of heightened global concern for shared values, such as democracy, good governance, and human rights, the CPA actively collaborates with partners to defend these principles. Central to our mission is the recognition of the vital role Commonwealth Parliaments play in upholding these ideals.
Empowering Parliamentarians: Agents of Change
With almost 180 distinct Parliaments under the CPA’s umbrella, each stands as a unique institution shaped by its historical evolution. Collectively, they wield the power to fortify democracy and drive transformative change. The CPA remains steadfast in providing the necessary support for Members to fulfill their parliamentary and constitutional duties.
The CPA’s commitment to fostering collaboration and communication among Members is exemplified through its three essential networks – the CPA Small Branches, the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), and the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities (CPwD). These platforms not only facilitate learning but also amplify the voices and shared interests of Parliamentarians throughout the Commonwealth.
A Unified Commitment: Towards a Resilient Future
As Commonwealth Parliamentarians gather in Ghana for the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, the occasion serves as a reaffirmation of our shared values and our unwavering dedication to the Commonwealth Charter. Let us seize this opportunity to collaborate across borders, learning from each other and rededicating ourselves to addressing the myriad challenges faced by Parliaments and citizens alike. Together, we forge a path towards a stronger, more resilient future.