The meeting, which is being held under the theme "Strengthening Parliamentary Work for Effective Implementation of African Union Treaties and Agenda 2063 Priorities," brings together participants to discuss ways to modernize parliamentary administrations and respond to changing requirements. In his opening speech, Dr. Boutebika emphasized that parliamentary administrations are essential for ensuring the continuity and effectiveness of democratic institutions.
Dr. Boutebika proposed that each national parliament designate a point of contact with the Pan-African Parliament within their administrations to improve information exchange, coordinate activities, and ensure effective participation of parliamentarians in continental parliamentary work. He also called for prioritizing the ratification of African Union treaties, their integration into national legislation, and implementation, with special attention to the Malabo Protocol.
The meeting also heard from Sabiha Gafarova, Chairperson of the National Assembly of Azerbaijan, who emphasized the critical role of parliamentary administrations in ensuring the daily functioning of parliaments and the continuity of their institutions. The first session of the meeting focused on "Artificial Intelligence and Parliamentary Work," exploring ways to utilize AI to improve access to parliamentary information, support legislation preparation, and facilitate informed decision-making.
The second session examined African Union treaties related to the 2026 theme, "Ensuring Sustainable Access to Water and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve Agenda 2063 Goals." Participants discussed the role of parliaments in using legislation, budgets, and parliamentary oversight to promote water security and sanitation, and support the ratification and implementation of relevant African Union instruments.
The third session addressed "The Role of Secretaries General in Africa in the 21st Century," focusing on the skills and leadership required to navigate parliamentary administrations through digital transformation and institutional change. The meeting also included general sessions, discussions, and presentations from experts, allowing participating parliaments to share practical experiences.
The meeting's outcomes will be compiled into a report and closing statement, aimed at guiding continued cooperation and supporting the modernization of African parliamentary secretariats. Dr. Boutebika confirmed that the meeting's conclusions will be presented to the Pan-African Parliament's bureau and the African Union leadership, reaffirming the parliament's commitment to fostering partnerships with national and regional parliaments.
Key issues to be addressed during the meeting include the importance of parliamentary administrations, the role of artificial intelligence in parliamentary work, and the implementation of African Union treaties.
Key points
- The meeting aims to strengthen parliamentary work and modernize parliamentary administrations.
- Dr. Boutebika proposed designating a point of contact with the Pan-African Parliament within each national parliament.
- The meeting's outcomes will be presented to the Pan-African Parliament's bureau and the African Union leadership.
