The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Chairperson, Dr. Christopher Kalila, MP on Wednesday 17^th September, 2025 addressed Scottish Parliamentarians during their CPA Branch Annual General Meeting to provide clarity on the work of the CPA. Dr Kalila stated that the CPA’s mission is to strengthen parliamentary democracy throughout the Commonwealth by supporting legislatures to be effective, inclusive and independent. He said the organisation does this by promoting good governance, sustainable development and human rights. He added that the CPA is focused on advancing Commonwealth values through cooperation, capacity building and innovation.

Dr Kalila further said that the CPA shares many common objectives with the UN Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and that they provide a framework with which to pursue the fulfilment of Commonwealth values. He noted that the work of the CPA is therefore, closely linked to the SDGs and their progress.

The CPA Chairperson also addressed other areas of the CPAs work which include, strengthening parliaments, capacity building and training, championing inclusivity and advancing international representation.

The CPA was founded in 1911 and is one of the oldest established organisations in the Commonwealth. It is a membership association which brings together Members, irrespective of gender, race, religion or culture, who are united by community of interest, respect for the rule of law and individual rights and freedoms and by the pursuit of the positive ideals of parliamentary democracy. The Association is made up of over 180 legislatures or Branches divided into nine geographic regions of the Commonwealth. The CPA offers a vast opportunity for Parliamentarians and parliamentary staff to collaborate on issues of mutual interest and to share good practice.