The International Day of Parliamentarism is observed annually on June 30th to commemorate the founding of the International Parliamentary Union (IPU) in 1889. This day was officially recognized in 2018 by a resolution from the United Nations General Assembly.
During an Observer AM interview yesterday, Chair of the Caribbean Women in Leadership Antigua Chapter, Barbara Hesse-Merchant emphasized that establishing an International Day for Parliamentarism is especially significant during this crucial period for parliamentary democracy, as public trust in political institutions is waning and democracy is encountering difficulties from populist and nationalist movements.
“That reminds us simply that Parliament is the people’s voice. It is where laws are made, futures are shaped, and where the nation’s diversity, men and women, young and old, should truly be reflected. So, we take this opportunity really to express our gratitude to all parliamentarians who have served and continue to serve, especially those who do so with sacrifice and integrity,” Hesse-Merchant noted.
She stated that the Day of Parliamentarism serves as an opportunity to evaluate the advancements that parliaments have accomplished in reaching significant objectives aimed at enhancing representation and keeping pace with contemporary developments.
This includes conducting self-assessments, striving to incorporate a greater number of women and young Members of Parliament, and adjusting to emerging technologies. She elaborated on the significance of achieving gender parity within parliament.
“Parliament, as we always say, is the voice of the people and it needs to reflect the population because we want men and women serving to create these laws that govern us. Men and women who do serve represent their constituents, both genders-young and old,” she stated.
Hesse-Merchant added that with their sacrifice that they give, they just want that reflected in Parliament.
“I do not want that to take away from what all Parliamentarians do. However, when men and women work together, beautiful things happen,” she said.
Hesse-Merchant also took the opportunity to convey her sincere gratitude to the President of the Senate, Alencia Williams Grant, for her exceptional dedication, not only as a parliamentary leader but also as a mentor and guide for young women aspiring to leadership roles. She remarked that her commitment to fostering the upcoming generation of female leaders is praiseworthy, embodying the true essence of what this day signifies.
