The Rt Hon Justice Patrick Matibini, SC, FCIArb, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia has led a delegation to the 138th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly and Related Meetings. The Assembly which is being held under the theme “Strengthening the global regime for migrants and refugees: the need for evidence based policy solutions” is being held in Geneva, Switzerland from 24th to 28th March, 2018.

The Assembly was officially opened on Sunday, 25th March, 2018 by the President of the IPU, Gabrielle Cuevas Baron. In her opening remarks, the IPU President has challenged Parliamentarians through their role as legislators to be agents of change with regard to the issue of migrants and refuges. Ms Baron further challenged the Parliamentarians to ensure that the speeches that will be made during the Assembly should lead to the change of mind set and action on the issue of migrants and refugees. She stated that parliamentarians should ensure that legislation that promotes the protection of migrants and refugees were passed and the ratification of treaties that enhance human rights of migrants and refugees.

The Assembly that will have about 69 speakers will aim at strengthening parliamentary contribution to the global compact for migration, sustaining peace as a vehicle for achieving sustainable development. In addition, the Assembly addressed the issue of women’s under presentation in politics, engaging the private sector in the development of renewable energy and building sustainable and resilient societies.