Story by ZBC Reporter
SPEAKER of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda, has called upon parliaments worldwide to transcend traditional diplomacy and actively engage in conflict resolution, peace-building, and equitable governance.
He was speaking at the 11th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20), in Cape Town, South Africa this Friday.
Advocate Mudenda emphasised the role of parliaments in addressing crises, particularly in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, asserting the necessity of parliamentary intervention where traditional avenues falter.
“Parliamentary diplomacy must act decisively where traditional avenues struggle, focusing on conflict resolution, peace-building, and fair dialogue rooted in the UN Charter,” Speaker Mudenda declared.
He highlighted humanity’s tendency to repeat historical mistakes and underscored the enduring need for justice, equity, and social cohesion.
“There is the ongoing problem in the Middle East. South Africa has taken the lead in advocating for diplomacy, grounded in international law and has highlighted actions that contravene international norms.
“We now see a growing number of states supporting Africa’s and South Africa’s initiatives at the International Court of Justice and at the recent United Nations General Assembly. Many countries are now backing a Two-State solution in the Middle East conflict and we must support this approach through Parliamentary Diplomacy,” he said.
“It will be important for selected countries and parliamentary leaders to engage directly with the authorities in Israel and relevant executives to fulfil the commitments set by the United Nations General Assembly, ensuring peace and security in the Middle East. The same applies in Eastern Europe. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine must come to an end, and parliamentary diplomacy is being called upon to intervene decisively.”
“Parliamentary diplomacy must achieve tangible results to create a world characterised by social justice, peace, and security, where all nations are respected in accordance with the United Nations Charter, Article Two, paragraphs three and four. Let us march together toward this vision. We will achieve it,” he concluded.
Advocate Mudenda reinforced the pivotal role of parliamentary leaders in bridging geopolitical divides and advancing lasting peace in a rapidly changing global environment, calling for concrete parliamentary engagement and advocating for social justice, equity and inclusive dialogue.
