Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Secretary General, Ms. Anda Filip, has raised concerns that emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), could lead to new forms of abuse against women. This warning was made during the Women Parliamentarians Forum, held on the sidelines of the 153rd IPU Assembly in Arusha, Tanzania. Ms. Filip emphasized that AI should be a priority for the IPU, urging parliaments to ensure responsible use and effective governance of the technology.
Ms. Filip commended IPU President, Dr. Tulia Ackson, for her leadership in strengthening women's influence and advancing gender parity within the organization. Under Dr. Ackson's leadership, the IPU has seen significant transformations, including increased women's participation and a commitment to gender parity as an institutional responsibility. As the first woman to serve as IPU Secretary General, Ms. Filip acknowledged the dedication of leaders and members who have contributed to the organization's transformation.
The Women Parliamentarians Forum has played a crucial role in driving change within the IPU, according to Ms. Filip. The forum has led to changes in the organization's rules, strengthened women's influence, and made gender parity a core responsibility. Ms. Filip highlighted that progress in advancing women's leadership comes with both confidence and responsibility, as women and girls look to women leaders as role models.
Ms. Filip emphasized that the IPU's new strategy should leverage gender equality as a catalyst for stronger parliaments, inclusive societies, and lasting peace. She stressed that, in a time of ongoing conflicts and distrust, parliamentary dialogue must remain open, with women having equal power to shape discussions and contribute to better outcomes. The Plan of Action for Gender Parity in Parliaments has established a clear vision that should now be translated into practical measures.
Violence against women in politics remains a significant barrier to their meaningful participation and leadership, according to Ms. Filip. She called for stronger measures to prevent abuse and hold perpetrators accountable. IPU research has helped expose violence against women in politics and inform parliamentary responses. The organization will deepen its efforts to help parliaments turn evidence into stronger laws and effective implementation.
To address the challenges posed by AI, Ms. Filip stated that the IPU will work with parliaments to develop strategies grounded in women's experiences. This includes preventing abuse, securing the swift removal of harmful content, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators and technology platforms accountable. She described the Women Parliamentarians Forum as a "powerhouse for change," urging participants to carry the same determination into their national parliaments.
Ms. Filip also emphasized the importance of the IPU setting an example for other multilateral institutions that have yet to place women's leadership at the core of their work. She expressed hope that the IPU's efforts will inspire other organizations, including the United Nations, to prioritize women's leadership. With her appointment as the first woman IPU Secretary General, Ms. Filip acknowledged the significance of this moment and the role of leaders and members in driving change.
Key points
- IPU Secretary General warns AI may create new forms of abuse against women
- IPU commits to working with parliaments to develop strategies to prevent abuse and hold perpetrators accountable
- Women's leadership is crucial for stronger parliaments, inclusive societies, and lasting peace
