The Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, is attending two high-level global parliamentary events in Geneva, the 15th Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament and the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament.
The parliamentary events are both convened under the auspices of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).
The 15th Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament brings together the highest parliamentary decision-making positions to shape the parliamentary agenda based on emerging political, economic, environmental, and social changes that require united and gender-responsive global governance solutions.
The summit which began on Monday, is set to conclude Thursday, 30 July 2025.
It also offers a platform for women leaders to network and exchange views and experiences.
This year’s summit coincides with significant global milestones for women and girls, including the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the 10-year milestone of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the 25th anniversary of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda.
“The women, peace and security agenda is marking 25 years of existence and is needed even more today than when it was established. The summit will focus on the role of women speakers in leading for inclusive and lasting peace,” the Speaker’s spokesperson, Reggie Ngcobo said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament 2025 kicked off at the Palais des Nations, the United Nations Office in Geneva on Tuesday.
Organised by the IPU in collaboration with the United Nations, the conference offers a unique global forum for parliamentary leaders to engage in high-level dialogue on strengthening the role of parliaments in global governance.
The 2025 edition of the conference that will conclude on Thursday, marks the culmination of two years of preparatory work by a committee of approximately 20 parliamentary speakers representing all regions of the world.
In keeping with the IPU’s inclusive approach, the conference will also feature contributions from prominent leaders from other international organisations, academia, and civil society. – SAnews.gov.za
