Parliamentarians gather in Zambia

Youth participation in politics will be on the agenda this week and next when Zambia hosts the third annual Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians closely followed by the 134th IPU Assembly. Both events are being jointly hosted by the IPU and the National Assembly of Zambia. New Zealand will be represented by Hon Annette King MP, Tracey Martin MP, Andrew Bayly MP and Gareth Hughes MP.

With complimentary themes of ‘Youth leading the way, leaving no one behind’ and ‘Rejuvenating democracy: giving voice to youth’, delegates will have an opportunity to debate and discuss ideas for improving young people’s access to and participation in the democratic process. During the IPU Assembly, Hon Annette King MP will take up the role of Acting President of the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights, and will also deliver the opening speech of the General Debate.

The Speaker of the House, Rt Hon David Carter, said both events are important forums for parliamentarians to meet and exchange views on supporting and engaging young people.

“Across the world, our youth are facing growing pressures in areas such as access to education, job training and security, and the environment. People between the ages of 15 and 25 currently make up one fifth of the world’s population, but this proportion is increasing rapidly. For the stability and prosperity of societies to improve, the participation and engagement of young people in political processes is a fundamental and critical requirement.

It is part of our job as parliamentarians to break down barriers between politicians and young people, to promote inclusiveness, and to develop solutions for peace and prosperity. I am sure that our delegates will represent the views of the New Zealand Parliament well and gain much from their participation at the meetings in Lusaka.”

Prior to their arrival in Zambia, three members of the delegation led by Hon Annette King MP will visit the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, where they will meet with the Health and Joint Education Committees, the Parliamentary Women’s Caucus, and the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation.

The Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians runs from 15 to 17 March 2016, and the bilateral visit to South Africa and the 134th IPU Assembly runs from 15 to 24 March 2016.

ENDS

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