On the sidelines of the Algiers International Book Fair, Dr. Fateh Boutouba, President of the African Parliament, revealed plans to establish the African Centre for Legislative Research and Studies under the auspices of the African Parliament. This announcement was made during a symposium titled "Readability and Building African Awareness: The Role of Culture and Parliamentary Diplomacy in Achieving Continental Renaissance according to Agenda 2063". The event took place at the Palmarium convention centre.
The proposed centre is part of Dr. Boutouba's vision to reform the institution and enhance its role in supporting decision-making processes. He emphasized that the centre aims to bridge the gap between academic research and parliamentary work, preparing studies that inform policy and legislation development. Furthermore, it seeks to expand collaboration between parliamentarians, universities, and research centres across Africa.
Dr. Boutouba highlighted the significance of reading in building awareness and fostering critical thinking. He recalled the contributions of African thinkers and writers to the continent's liberation and the reclaiming of its history. The President of the African Parliament also linked the promotion of readability to the fifth aspiration of the African Union's Agenda 2063, which advocates for an Africa with a strong cultural identity and shared heritage.
In his address, Dr. Boutouba called for cooperation between national parliaments, continental institutions, and stakeholders in the culture and publishing sectors. This cooperation aims to facilitate the circulation of African books, support translation and digital publishing, and increase access to knowledge for children and young people. He expressed his aspiration to strengthen the position of the Algiers International Book Fair as a platform for African writers, publishers, and thinkers.
The symposium also provided an opportunity for Dr. Boutouba to acknowledge the efforts of Mr. Mohamed Iguerb, Governor of the Algiers International Book Fair, in organizing the event and promoting cultural dialogue. At the end of the symposium, Dr. Boutouba honoured Mr. Iguerb for his contributions to the cultural gathering.
The planned African Centre for Legislative Research and Studies is set to play a pivotal role in supporting the African Parliament's functions. By fostering collaboration between researchers, parliamentarians, and academic institutions, the centre is expected to produce studies that will inform policy decisions and legislative actions across the continent.
Key points
- Dr. Fateh Boutouba announces plans to launch the African Centre for Legislative Research and Studies.
- The centre aims to bridge the gap between academic research and parliamentary work.
- The initiative is part of Dr. Boutouba's vision to reform the African Parliament and enhance its role in supporting decision-making processes.
