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PGA 2025 Year in Review and Looking Ahead to 2026

December 08, 2025

As another year draws to a close, we reflect on the extraordinary resource at the heart of everything we do: our member parliamentarians.

Take Action

Use your voice as a member of parliament and take action on these issues.

Support the High Seas Treaty

Solidarity with the International Criminal Court

Support a Moratorium on Deep Sea Mining

Sign the Global Parliamentary Code of Democratic Conduct

December 04, 2025

46ᵗʰ Annual Forum and 4ᵗʰ Consultative Assembly of Parliamentarians for the Oceans

Hosted by the Senate of Mexico, we hope you will join us in the capital for two days of engaging conversations and connecting with fellow parliamentarians.

Join us in Mexico City, Mexico, for the 4th Consultative Assembly of Parliamentarians for the Oceans (CAP-Oceans) held within the framework of the 46th Annual Forum of Parliamentarians for Global Action! PGA's Annual Forum brings together our global membership to share good practices and learn from each other, while also connecting parliamentarians to technical experts and civil society organizations, encouraging action on global priorities. The 46th Annual Forum will coincide with the Consultative Assembly of Parliamentarians for the Oceans; the premier gathering of legislators from around the world focused on the protection of our oceans and our fishers. Hosted by the Senate of Mexico, we hope you will join us in the capital for these two days of engaging conversations and connecting with fellow parliamentarians. As PGA's funding is limited, we encourage you to explore funding options for your participation through your respective parliaments. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions at Fourth Consultative Assembly of Parliamentarians for the Oceans (CAP-Oceans) The 4th CAP-Oceans will bring together parliamentarians, experts, civil society representatives, and other key stakeholders to engage in interactive discussions and to develop a concrete action plan centered on the effective implementation of marine protected areas (MPAs) as a tool for robust ocean governance. Highlighting MPAs in national waters and in the high seas through the global implementation of the UN High Seas Treaty, the CAP-Oceans will reinforce both the global goal to protect 30 percent of the ocean by 2030 and Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water. Participants will benefit from the sharing of experiences on the creation and co-management of MPAs, for example, in regions like the Americas and Gulf of Guinea, and on multilateral cooperation for the historic High Seas Treaty all from a human rights lens. 46th PGA Annual Forum and CAP-Oceans Registration .xcolumn /* Clear floats after the columns */ .xrow:after

December 03, 2025

Strengthening Protections for Parliamentarians: A Dialogue with the European Parliament

To address this serious threat to democracy and to demonstrate solidarity with its members, Parliamentarians for Global Action created the Parliamentary Rapid Response Team in 2020.

Violence against parliamentarians has intensified across all regions of the world, even within long-standing democracies. Attacks that were once exceptional have now become a part of the daily reality faced by many elected representatives. To address this serious threat to democracy and to demonstrate solidarity with its members, Parliamentarians for Global Action created the Parliamentary Rapid Response Team in 2020. This team brings together committed parliamentarians from all regions of the globe who are ready to mobilize when legislators or human rights defenders are placed at immediate risk. On 3 December 2025, we had the opportunity to present our work before the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights during an exchange of views on the protection of parliamentarians at risk worldwide. The session was organized in partnership with the Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). It featured Senator Etienne Blanc, Chair of the IPU Committee, and Hon. Job Sikhala, MP (Zimbabwe), who testified about the political repression and arbitrary detention he endured, as well as attacks suffered by his family because of his political work. Parliamentarians at risk: an increasing phenomenon A decade ago, the Inter-Parliamentary Union recorded approximately 300 to 350 cases of legislators in danger through its dedicated Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians, with which PGA collaborates closely. Today, this number exceeds 1,000 cases worldwide. Such an environment threatens the ability of parliamentarians to carry out their mandate. They may lose their political rights following politically motivated prosecutions, arbitrary arrests, unfair trials, and suspensions driven by the government or parliamentary majorities. Existing disciplinary mechanisms to address misconduct by MPs often remain unused or prove ineffective. Threats vary across regions, but they follow a global pattern: Weaponization of justice through politically motivated charges, arbitrary detention, and unfair proceedings. Digital attacks, including smear campaigns, online publication of personal information (doxing), misogynistic online harassment, and threats amplified by algorithms. Physical violence such as assaults, abductions, and assassinations. State-sponsored repression, including surveillance and suspension of parliamentary immunities. Growing attacks on political parties. Violence targeting women MPs, in all their diversities It is important to raise awareness about the specific threats faced by women parliamentarians, who are victims of disproportionate harassment and intimidation, both online and offline, as well as gender-based and sexual violence, among other forms of physical assaults. Many of these attacks go unreported, in part because official reporting systems are often inadequate or nonexistent. This situation discourages many women from engaging in politics, a sphere where they remain underrepresented. The consequences can be devastating for a truly representative democracy. Answering the threats: Parliamentary Rapid Response Team The Parliamentary Rapid Response Team (PARRT) is committed to addressing the needs of parliamentarians at risk through urgent action alerts, public statements, direct or quiet advocacy, referrals to specialized civil society partner, and coordinated engagement with governments, diplomatic missions, and international partners. Parliamentarians at risk, or their colleagues, can refer cases directly to PARRT. The team then reviews the case according to rigorous criteria before deciding the appropriate action to take. This approach allows PARRT to act rapidly, responsibly, and effectively in partnership with parliamentarians. Since its creation in 2020, the Parliamentary Rapid Response Team has intervened in a wide range of situations across regions, including the cases of Hon. Leila de Lima, MP (The Philippines), Fabien Banciryanino, MP (Burundi), Soledad Buendía, MP (Ecuador), and numerous other cases in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Sudan, Venezuela, and beyond. This solidarity is not symbolic — it has a real impact. In several cases, international pressure has helped secure due process guarantees, obtained release from detention, or improved the safety conditions of threatened MPs. Leadership to protect democracy Violence against parliamentarians is part of a broader context of democratic backsliding, misogyny, disinformation ecosystems, shrinking of civic space, and normalization of authoritarian practices. To stop these attacks, institutions must address their root causes and protect the rule of law. In this context, it is also essential to counter hate speech, which is on the rise and for which parliamentarians should be the first ones to lead by example. Parliamentarians for Global Action developed a Global Parliamentary Code of Democratic Conduct, open to signatures of all parliamentarians worldwide, to hold legislators accountable for their speech, encourage respectful and inclusive dialogue, and ensure they refrain from disseminating disinformation. Continued leadership can protect democratic institutions. By reporting on cases of legislators at risk; strengthening international initiatives such as PARRT; and promoting early detection, rapid solidarity, and coordinated international action, parliamentarians can exercise their mandates in a safer environment, ensuring a stronger democracy.

November 18, 2025

International Justice Update - November 2025

PGA's Update on International Justice is provided as a resource to our members and the general public on important headlines on the Impunity Gap, Legislative and Parliamentary Developments and Judicial News.

November 04, 2025

International Leaders Champion Abolition of the Death Penalty in Malawi at UN Review

The event highlighted Malawi’s journey towards abolition, discussed remaining challenges, and shared best practices.

On 4 November, the United Nations Human Rights Council reviewed Malawi’s human rights record through a process called the Universal Periodic Review. This peer-review mechanism enables every United Nations Member State to evaluate each other’s progress on human rights and to offer recommendations for improvement. For Malawi, one issue stood out: despite several attempts and commitments, the country has yet to abolish the death penalty. While the country hasn't executed anyone in three decades, maintaining what's called a de facto moratorium, the death penalty remains on the books. The Universal Periodic Review provided an opportunity to definitively put an end to this practice. During this 2025 review, 31 UN Member States recommended that Malawi abolish the death penalty and/or ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. Within this context, Parliamentarians for Global Action, Reprieve, and The Advocates for Human Rights gathered national and international experts in Geneva for an “Information Meeting on the Universal Periodic Review Process in Malawi: Towards the Abolition of the Death Penalty in Malawi and the Region.” The event highlighted Malawi’s journey towards abolition, discussed remaining challenges, and shared best practices. Malawi’s Evolving Stance on the Death Penalty Opening the meeting, Ms. Grace Malera, Commissioner of the Malawi Human Rights Commission and Ombudsperson for Malawi, traced the country’s journey towards abolition. She explained that while Malawi’s 1993 Constitution enshrines one of the most progressive Bills of Rights, including the right to life, the death penalty persists as a holdover from the colonial era, embedded in the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure and Evidence Code. A turning point came in 2007 with a landmark Constitutional Court ruling declaring the mandatory death penalty unconstitutional. Ms. Malera emphasized that abolishing the death penalty isn’t just a legal matter — it’s a political and human rights issue requiring inclusive dialogue, engagement, and leadership. That leadership can be seen in recent parliamentary actions in Malawi. PGA member Hon. Victor Musowa, First Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Malawi, highlighted the work done in 2022 when the Legal Aid Committee conducted the largest public consultation ever held in the country and demonstrated unequivocal support for abolition across Malawi. I make the commitment knowing where we are coming from, knowing our commitments, knowing what we are able to achieve and knowing what we are able to do as Malawian Parliament. The work out here is enormous but manageable if we catch the new MPs to understand the whole concept of the abolition of death sentence. Honorable Victor Musowa, MP (Malawi), PGA Member Mr. Chimwemwe Chithope-Mwale, Director of the Legal Aid Bureau, shared an encouraging success story from the Malawi Resentencing Project, carried out in partnership with Reprieve and the Cornell Centre on the Death Penalty Worldwide. The initiative followed the 2007 High Court landmark ruling abolishing the mandatory death penalty, which allowed prisoners to seek reduced sentences based on mitigating factors the courts had previously overlooked. Through careful investigation and presentation of new evidence, sentencing hearings were held under international fair trial standards. Many prisoners were released immediately, others received reduced sentences (with only one case resulting in life imprisonment), and no individual was resentenced to death. For Mr. Chithope-Mwale, this project demonstrated that when mitigation is conducted and fair trials are ensured, the death penalty loses its appeal as a sentence. Even more striking were the stories of reconciliation: Traditional leaders and communities welcomed back former inmates after resentencing — powerful examples of forgiveness and social healing in action. Mr. Chithope-Mwale also emphasized the importance of addressing prison conditions in the justice process, as they are often degrading and inhumane. They must be urgently addressed to uphold justice and human dignity. Lessons from other countries and international commitments Dr. Rajiv Narayan, Co-Executive Director of the International Commission Against the Death Penalty, brought a more global perspective, citing the different paths that other countries have taken toward abolition, including: Legislative reforms and political leadership, such as in Zambia, Zimbabwe, or France Ratification of the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, such as in Mongolia or Kazakhstan Breaking away from an oppressive past, such as Rwanda or Cambodia Constitutional Court judgement, such as in South Africa Malawi has already taken important steps, Dr. Narayan observed. Now the country should consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights — the key international instrument for abolition. Ms. Liza Sekaggya, OHCHR Desk Officer for Malawi, welcomed the growing momentum across Africa. She highlighted recent progress in Zambia and Côte d’Ivoire as the last two countries to have ratified the Second Optional Protocol. She reminded participants that the UN provides crucial frameworks for this work. The Universal Periodic Review and States’ pledges create structured pathways for countries to advance human rights and monitor compliance with international law. She also pointed to the 2024 General Assembly Resolution on a Moratorium on the use of the death penalty, which received a record 130 votes in favor — clear evidence of increasing global momentum toward abolition. Calling Malawi to Action: Mr. Victor Mhango, Founder and Executive Director of the Centre for Human Rights Education, Advice and Assistance (CHREAA), urged the new government and parliamentarians to act swiftly and hold an early debate in the new legislature to pass legislative reform. Malawi has the opportunity and responsibility to join the growing number of African nations that have abolished the death penalty. Continuing diplomatic engagement and peer-to-peer dialogue among parliamentarians will be essential to sustaining this momentum and supporting Malawi on its path towards full abolition.

October 11, 2025

PGA National Group in The Gambia leads the way on Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership

The virtual briefing brought together members of parliament, civil society leaders, and international partners to reflect on both the progress made and the structural challenges that persist in ensuring that every girl in The Gambia can live free from violence, discrimination, and exclusion.

On the International Day of the Girl Child 2025, Parliamentarians for Global Action’s National Group in The Gambia, under the leadership of Hon. Abdoulie Ceesay, convened a cross-party high-level parliamentary dialogue to reaffirm The Gambia’s commitment to gender equality, the empowerment of girls, and the creation of inclusive political spaces for women. The virtual briefing brought together members of parliament, civil society leaders, and international partners to reflect on both the progress made and the structural challenges that persist in ensuring that every girl in The Gambia can live free from violence, discrimination, and exclusion. In his opening remarks, Hon. Ceesay highlighted the urgent need to move from commitment to implementation, emphasizing that while The Gambia has a solid legal framework protecting the rights of women and girls, gaps in enforcement and deep-rooted cultural practices continue to hinder progress. He further stressed the importance of legislative leadership in promoting justice, particularly in aligning customary, religious, and international laws to uphold the rights of girls in areas such as marriage, inheritance, and reproductive health. Removing Tax on Sanitary Pads: "A Matter of Dignity and Public Health" Hon. Ceesay also called for the elimination of import taxes on sanitary pads, framing menstrual hygiene as a public health and human rights issue. He argued that continued taxation of menstrual products disproportionately affects girls, especially those in rural areas, who may miss school, suffer embarrassment, or resort to unsafe alternatives during their periods. "As a father of two daughters, I know firsthand that sanitary pads are not a luxury — they are a necessity," he said. "Removing taxes on these essential products is a matter of dignity, health, and equality." His call to action echoes long-standing advocacy from grassroots organizations, such as Women in Liberation and Leadership, who have raised awareness on "period poverty" and its impact on education and social participation. Structural Barriers to Transformative Change Dr. Fatou Baldeh, founder of Women in Liberation and Leadership, delivered a powerful address underscoring the persistence of harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, child marriage, and sexual and gender-based violence. She emphasized the critical need for political will, legislative reform, and collaboration with civil society to shift social norms and ensure the safety and inclusion of girls. Participants also discussed several other actions to be taken: The need for greater representation and training for women in political spaces, including efforts that could re-introduce a gender quota bill to reserve at least 30% of parliamentary and local government seats in The Gambia for women. Although the bill failed to pass in the 5th Legislature due to political and procedural obstacles, renewed momentum aims to build consensus and ensure stronger women’s representation in decision-making. Support for policies that allow pregnant girls and adolescent mothers to stay in school. The importance of strengthening oversight bodies such as the National Human Rights Commission and the Office of the Ombudsman to promote greater accountability, transparency, and equal protection under the law. By equipping these bodies with sufficient resources, independence, and authority, they can more effectively safeguard rights, address discrimination, and reinforce public trust in democratic governance. Notably, Hon. Gibbi Mballow shared personal experiences of backlash faced by MPs who speak out against female genital mutilation, underscoring the risks and resistance encountered in pushing for gender-sensitive reforms. He called for greater public awareness and education, and stronger enforcement of legislative reforms. The dialogue also highlighted key national initiatives under way in The Gambia: The National Gender Policy 2025 - 2034, which provides a comprehensive framework to mainstream gender equality across all sectors. The Strategic Plan 2025 - 2030, which outlines a roadmap for implementing gender commitments through cross-sectoral collaboration. Plans to host a regional Women, Peace and Security training in 2025, displaying leadership in gender-inclusive peacebuilding. Towards Real Change: A Shared Responsibility Ms. Melissa Verpile, Director of Democracy, Gender, and Inclusion at Parliamentarians for Global Action, closed the session by reaffirming support for The Gambia’s efforts and encouraging legislators to be bold in translating principles into practice. Participants left the convening with the following key steps for further action: Menstrual health must be addressed through practical policies, including tax exemptions on sanitary products. Customary and international laws must be harmonized to uphold gender equality in all spheres of life. Civil society partnerships are essential for reaching communities, challenging norms, and providing support to survivors. Political representation of women and girls must be increased through quotas, mentorship, and capacity building. Oversight and enforcement mechanisms must be strengthened to ensure that rights are protected and violators held accountable. This year’s commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child in The Gambia served, as more than a symbolic observance, it was a strategic platform for action. Parliamentarians for Global Action celebrates the leadership of its National Group in The Gambia and calls on parliamentarians worldwide to continue building inclusive, safe, and equitable political spaces, where girls today can become the empowered women leaders of tomorrow.

October 09, 2025

We Call Upon Parliamentarians to Take Action on this World Day Against the Death Penalty 2025

Each year on 10 October, the global abolitionist movement comes together to observe the World Day Against the Death Penalty. In 2024 and 2025, the focus has been on addressing the myth that the death penalty ensures safety, with the message: “The Death Penalty Protects No One: Abolish it Now.” A primary duty of any country’s government is to ensure the security of citizens. Living in a safe and secure society not only means living in a community free from conflict. It also requires creating the conditions that foster peace, uphold accountability, and protect individuals from threats and violations of their fundamental rights and freedoms. The death penalty has no place in these societies. We are living in challenging times, marked by escalating global crises and the erosion of the rules-based international order. But as complex as the current context may be, no one should justify executions as a means of strengthening security. The death penalty protects no one, and to claim otherwise, is both false and dangerous. The use of capital punishment perpetuates cycles of violence and disproportionately targets marginalized and vulnerable communities. It is an ineffective, irreversible punishment that amounts to torture and other cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment. A year of contrasts for abolitionists The World Day Against the Death Penalty’s bi-yearly theme has focused on the link between the death penalty and security, challenging the false narrative that executions ensure safety. It highlights the progress gained by advocates for abolition: fewer countries are carrying out executions and retentionist countries are increasingly isolated. Today, 113 countries have abolished the death penalty in law and 29 countries observe a moratorium on executions. This means that 77% of the world’s countries no longer carry out executions. Yet despite this progress, there has been a sharp rise in executions, with at least 1,518 people executed in 2024 across just 15 countries — the second consecutive year in which executions reached their highest level since 2015 according to Amnesty International. This alarming trend has continued into 2025, with more than 1,000 executions already recorded in Iran alone — the highest figure in over three decades according to the NGO Iran Human Rights. Many of these recorded executions are carried out under the guise of maintaining public order (despite clear evidence that the death penalty does not deter crimes). They also violate international law, as they fail to meet the “most serious crimes” threshold (defined as crimes of extreme gravity involving intentional killing). For example, in 2024, 43% of recorded executions were for drug-related offences, which do not meet this criterion. While there is growing consensus to put an end to the death penalty, continued action is vital to prevent backsliding and promote universal abolition. The international community must redouble efforts to combat punitive narratives and to reaffirm a human rights-based approach to justice and security. Dangerous revivals: security as a pretext for executions In several countries, some political leaders are reviving rhetoric that equates security with punishment, calling for reinforcement or even the reintroduction of capital punishment. Some very recent developments are particularly worrying: United States: a Presidential proclamation reintroduces the death penalty in Washington D.C. to “deter and punish the most heinous crimes.” Kyrgyzstan: the President instructed the drafting of a bill to reinstate the death penalty for severe crimes against children and women, despite the country’s abolition in 2007 and its commitment under the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to abolish the death penalty. Chad: a new commission has been established to consider restoring the death penalty, only four years after the country abolished the death penalty. Israel: a bill allowing the death penalty for “terrorist” crimes has passed its first reading. Invoking “security” to justify executions is common political rhetoric. Security comes by addressing the root causes of violence, ensuring the good management of security and justice sectors, while promoting accountability. Resorting to the death penalty only deepens social divisions, entrenches unfairness and replaces justice with vengeance. Even in the most difficult contexts of insecurity and conflict, we have chosen the path of abolition – proof that strong political will can pave the way for positive change. We know that executions bring neither peace nor justice. Only truth, accountability and reparations can do that. Abolishing the death penalty means investing in human rights. I call on my fellow parliamentarians around the world to work together to ensure that the death penalty becomes a thing of the past. Hon. Émilie Béatrice Epaye, MP (Central African Republic), member of Parliamentarians for Global Action Parliamentarians at the forefront of abolition Parliamentarians have a crucial role to play in advancing universal abolition of the death penalty and countering the narrative that seek to justify it, whether they hold roles in abolitionist, abolitionist in practice, or retentionist countries. Legislators have the power to amend, draft, and adopt legislations that narrow the scope of the death penalty and lead to its eventual abolition. To support these efforts, Parliamentarians for Global Action and the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty published a factsheet in honor of World Day: “The Death Penalty Protects No One.” The publication outlines how governments have used “security” as a political tool to justify executions and provides parliamentarians with clear arguments and practical steps to counter these false narratives and drive action towards universal abolition. As punitive narratives regain ground in many parts of the world, this work has never been more urgent. Executions neither deter crime nor promote safety: they perpetuate fear and inequality. Parliamentarians, regardless of their country’s current stance on the death penalty, can take concrete action to promote universal abolition: Support or initiate legislative efforts that restrict and ultimately abolish capital punishment. Collaborate with like-minded parliamentarians across party lines to identify legislative strategies for universal abolition. Promote the universal ratification or accession to relevant regional or international instruments, such as the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to abolish the death penalty. Challenge pro-death penalty narratives, including by publicly committing not to call for its use, even in contexts of insecurity, and promoting stronger accountability systems and policies that address the root causes of violence. Promote dialogue about justice, security, and human rights, and engage with citizens, victims’ associations, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders. On this World Day, PGA call on its members to stand with the abolitionist movement, reaffirming a clear message: the death penalty protects no-one, abolish it now.

September 19, 2025

A Historic Milestone in High Seas Ocean Governance

In a momentous display of effective global cooperation, the High Seas Treaty achieved 60 ratifications.

On September 19, 2025, in a momentous display of effective global cooperation, the High Seas Treaty achieved 60 ratifications, triggering its entry into force. This is a historic milestone for ocean governance and the first international, legally binding framework for the protection of the high seas. The Treaty will enter into force on January 17, 2026. Two years after the finalization of the Treaty text, countries from every region of the world have come together to accelerate multilateral action towards the Treaty’s realization. The Treaty establishes a framework for the creation of marine protected areas, or MPAs, in areas beyond national jurisdiction. In doing so, it reinforces the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and contributes to achieving the 30 by 30 goal to protect at least 30 percent of the ocean by 2030, as established in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Parliamentarians have championed the Treaty as an effective tool for global governance through PGA’s Oceans Campaign since 2019, and we look forward to continuing this historic momentum towards its effective implementation to protect this common heritage of humankind. Over the years, PGA members have championed the protection of the high seas. A few statements below showing their support: Our oceans are the lifeblood of our planet, and their health is directly tied to our right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment for present and future generations. As we face the triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate change, the need to protect our oceans has never been more urgent. Supporting the High Seas Treaty is a crucial step in this fight … As Parliamentarians, we must sign on to the High Seas Treaty as we must be committed to human rights and sustainable development. Hon. Naveed Qamar Syed, MP (Pakistan) PGA President I am truly delighted that the BBNJ Agreement has now reached 60 ratifications. Even though I come from a landlocked country, I know that healthy oceans are essential for the wellbeing of our entire planet and for all of humanity. The high seas regulate our climate, provide food and livelihoods, and are home to an incredible diversity of life. This milestone is therefore much more than a legal achievement – it is a strong step toward protecting marine biodiversity, strengthening global cooperation, and safeguarding our shared future.Ms. Petra Bayr, MP (Austria), PGA Treasurer The 60th ratification of the High Seas Treaty is a historic milestone for humanity and for the health of our planet. As parliamentarians, we understand that our oceans know no borders, and their protection demands bold collective action. This achievement reflects years of tireless advocacy, including the leadership of PGA members, to safeguard biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction. It is now our duty to ensure that this Treaty is fully implemented, so that future generations inherit oceans that are resilient, thriving, and a source of shared prosperity.Hon. Amanza Walton-Desir, MP (Guyana), PGA Board Member With The Gambia's ratification bringing the BBNJ into force for 60 parties, the international community rededicates itself to safeguarding marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction. This historic milestone reinforces the UN's commitment to shared stewardship, equitable benefit-sharing, and capacity-building—ensuring sustainable ocean governance for current and future generations and resilient coastal communities. Hon. Abdoulie Ceesay, MP (The Gambia) Anything that protects our planet deserves solid words and actions. Its preservation, therefore, must be our primary objective. The High Seas Treaty is necessary to safeguard the oceans.Hon. Roger Mancienne, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Seychelles during PGA’s 3rd CAP-Oceans I want Seychelles to be one of the first countries to ratify the High Seas Treaty and it is my job to bring Treaty ratification to the floor for a vote.Hon. Bernard Georges, MP (Seychelles) during PGA’s 3rd CAP-Oceans It was my love for the ocean that first brought me into politics. As both a marine biologist and a Swedish parliamentarian, I am truly delighted by the adoption of the BBNJ Agreement. This treaty is a milestone for protecting life in the high seas and for restoring faith in international cooperation. I hope countries will move swiftly towards ratification so that this historic achievement becomes real protection for our shared ocean. Ms. Emma Nohrén, MP (Sweden) Any effort made in the direction of protecting the seas is an effort that we must support. This agreement goes in that direction, especially in those areas of the sea that are not part of the EEZ of the countries.Dep. Felix Gonzalez (Chile) As the first landlocked country to ratify the High Seas Treaty, Malawi’s ratification comes as an important step towards environmental protection that benefits all of humankind. The urgent entry into force of this Treaty is vital to protect our oceans, our planet, and all people for generations to come.Hon. Roseby Gadama, MP (Malawi) The future of marine ecosystems and livelihoods around the world depends on decisive action to protect marine biodiversity and to promote responsible and sustainable ocean use. Ratifying the High Seas Treaty is one clear action that addresses these environmental challenges in a meaningful way.Hon. Valerie Woods, MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Belize, PGA Board Member We need to protect the human rights of our constituents to a healthy environment. The high seas are two-thirds of the oceans, essential to the livelihoods of millions of people. I suggest that MPs share lessons learned through PGA National Groups to assure that the Treaty becomes a reality, including experiences through ratification and implementation of other TreatiesMr. Patrick Kensenhuis, former member of parliament in Suriname during PGA’s 3rd CAP-Oceans The High Seas Treaty demonstrates our government’s willingness to prioritize our oceans’ health … For us, as MPs concerned with the objectives of the BBNJ, it is essential to note that deep sea mining is inconsistent with the Treaty’s objective.Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, MP (Vanuatu) during PGA’s 3rd CAP-Oceans

September 05, 2025

Gender Apartheid – Policy Brief

Parliamentarians can play a critical role in advocating for the recognition and codification of gender apartheid as a crime under international law, as well as in promoting solidarity and support for the voices of Afghan and Iranian women.

Background The call to recognize the crime of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity first emerged in the 1990s, when UN experts reported that the Taliban had “introduced what is in point of fact a system of apartheid in respect of women.” Yet, no concrete action led to enshrining this crime in international law, leaving a persistent accountability gap for its survivors and victims. Gender apartheid is unique in its intent and institutionalized character: it aims not only to discriminate against a group based on their gender identity through inhumane acts, but also to establish and maintain a system of domination and total exclusion of that group from the social, economic, cultural, and political life of a country. The Taliban’s return to power in 2021 has underscored the urgent need to recognize gender apartheid. Through state-imposed laws and institutionalized practices, Afghan women and girls are excluded from education, employment, healthcare, political participation, and any kind of public engagement. They are denied their human rights and control over their own bodies and lives. Afghan and Iranian women’s rights defenders are leading the global campaign for recognition of this crime through the End Gender Apartheid initiative. Their demand is clear: the international community must codify gender apartheid as a crime against humanity and take decisive action to dismantle and prevent gender apartheid regimes. Parliamentarians can play a critical role in advocating for the recognition and codification of gender apartheid as a crime under international law, as well as in promoting solidarity and support for the voices of Afghan and Iranian women. What is gender apartheid? The crime of apartheid is an internationally recognized crime against humanity, rooted in the history of South Africa. The International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court define it as the institutionalized domination of one racial or ethnic group over another. However, neither of these instruments extends the concept to include gender-based forms of apartheid. UN experts and human rights advocates have documented gender persecutions and violations in countries such as Afghanistan and Iran, where state-designed, coordinated, and institutionalized mechanisms are used to oppress a specific group based on their gender. This results in their exclusion and separation from the country’s social, economic, cultural, and political life. In Afghanistan, the elimination of rights and freedoms of women and girls, imposed by Taliban laws, policies, and practices, reflects the system of apartheid based on gender. The current definition of the crime of apartheid in the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court should therefore be adapted to recognize gender apartheid, conceptualized as: “inhumane acts committed in the context of an institutionalized regime of systematic oppression and domination by one gender group over any other gender group or groups and committed with the intention of maintaining that regime.” Why recognizing and naming gender apartheid matters Under international law, there is currently no recognition of the crime of gender apartheid. While available legal tools, such as the crime of gender persecution, address the existence of serious violations depriving individuals of rights on the basis of gender, they do not account for the systematic, state-designed, and institutionalized nature of gender apartheid. Nor do they reflect the specific intent to maintain a regime of domination, which is an element that distinguishes apartheid from other crimes against humanity. In the fight against impunity, crimes must be named, defined, and codified to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable, victims and survivors obtain justice and reparations, and future violations are prevented. Without codification in legal frameworks, the cycle of violence cannot be broken, leaving victims and survivors without remedies and perpetuating an accountability gap. Recognizing gender apartheid as a crime against humanity would complement existing provisions on gender-based crimes and human rights violations, while creating a stronger legal framework to hold accountable regimes that seek to erase women and girls from the social, economic, cultural, and political life of a country. Ongoing developments and opportunities for recognition of the crime of gender apartheid The leadership of Afghan and Iranian women’s rights defenders has grown momentum to codify the crime of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity. The term is now increasingly used by experts, civil society organizations, parliamentarians, and other stakeholders, creating a unique window of opportunity to recognize it under international law. 1) The Convention on Crimes Against Humanity The most immediate and concrete opportunity lies in the ongoing negotiations of a new UN Convention on Crimes Against Humanity, where countries could ensure that gender apartheid is explicitly recognized and defined. This process requires strong political support to avoid gender apartheid being sidelined. In November 2024, countries adopted a resolution mandating a Conference of Plenipotentiaries to convene in 2028 and then in 2029, to negotiate the final text of the Convention with the aim of opening it for signature and ratification thereafter. During 2026, a preparatory committee will review draft articles and consider proposed amendments, thus providing an opening to advocate for the inclusion of gender apartheid in the Convention. 2) Amending the Rome Statute A parallel path to include gender apartheid as an international crime is to amend the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, granting the Court the mandate to investigate this crime and prosecute its perpetrators — thereby recognizing the individual criminal responsibility in the commitment of this crime. This route, however, may be lengthy and would require significant political will: any State Party to the Rome Statute may propose amendments, which must be adopted by consensus or a two-thirds majority of States Parties at the Assembly of States Parties or a Review Conference. To date, no formal amendment on this matter has been introduced, making this a crucial moment to open debate among States Parties to take leadership in advancing recognition of gender apartheid within the Rome Statute system. 3) Collecting data in line with the SDGs To ensure effective monitoring and accountability, parliamentarians should call for the systematic tracking of indicators that reveal the scope and impact of gender apartheid, framed within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include access to education (SDG 4), particularly the enrollment and attendance of girls at the secondary and tertiary levels; women’s participation in the labor force and access to decent work (SDG 8); restrictions on freedom of movement, including the enforcement of male guardianship and compulsory dress codes (SDG 5 and SDG 16); and the prevalence of punishments, arrests, and surveillance technologies used to enforce gender-based segregation (SDG 9 and SDG 16). By collecting and publishing disaggregated data on these indicators, parliaments can both identify areas where systemic oppression persists and evaluate progress toward achieving gender equality under SDG 5. Given the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September 2025 in New York, parliamentarians have a timely opportunity to advocate for the integration of these indicators into global reporting frameworks, thereby strengthening international consensus and accountability on eliminating gender apartheid. What can parliamentarians do? Parliamentarians can open debates on gender apartheid to push the issue to the top of national and international agendas and to adopt recommendations for its legal codification and global recognition. As a parliamentarian, you can: Advocate for the recognition and codification of gender apartheid: Call on your government to support the inclusion of gender apartheid in the draft UN Convention on Crimes Against Humanity. Call on your government to initiate support for proposing an amendment to include gender apartheid in the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. Establish parliamentary working groups and issue parliamentary resolutions dedicated to the recognition and codification of gender apartheid at the national, regional, and international levels. Promote solidarity and support: Elevate the voices of Afghan and Iranian women’s rights defenders leading the global campaign to End Gender Apartheid, notably by including them in any discussions or events related to the issue. Engage with international organizations and civil society groups to raise awareness and advocate for the inclusion of gender apartheid under international law. Ensure effective monitoring: Call for the systematic tracking of indicators that reveal the scope and impact of gender apartheid, framed within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Parliamentary actions by PGA members In the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe: Petra Bayr, MP (Austria) and member of PGA Executive Committee, introduced a resolution adopted on June 26, 2025 urging “Council of Europe member States that are Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court to consider proposing an amendment to the statute in order to include the crime of ‘gender apartheid’.” In the Netherlands: PGA organized a roundtable on gender justice for Afghanistan in June 2025 bringing together Dutch Senators, Afghan parliamentarians in exile, and experts to foster dialogue on the need for gender accountability in Afghanistan and the recognition of gender apartheid. In the European Parliament: Members — including PGA member Hannah Neumann, MP (Germany) — tabled a motion for a resolution adopted on September 19, 2024, calling the “EU to support the recognition of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity.” In Canada: on April 18, 2024, Mr. Ali Ehsassi, chair of PGA’s International Council, introduced two petitions in the Senate of Canada, on behalf of Afghan and Iranian women, respectively. The petitions demanded that international institutions recognize gender apartheid as a crime against humanity under international law, advocating for feminist principles and for universalism of human rights to be reflected in existing and emergent international law. The petitions urged other countries to take steps to adopt similar policies. In the United Kingdom: In 2024, Baroness Kennedy of The Shaws LT KC, director of the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute (IBAHRI) and PGA member, established an ad-hoc parliamentary inquiry on gender apartheid to examine the issue and push for government action.

August 29, 2025

Episode 22: Ms. Petra Bayr, MP (Austria) and Hon. Amanza Walton Desir, MP (Guyana) on PGA Oceans Campaign

PGA Treasurer, Ms. Petra Bayr, MP (Austria) and PGA Board Member, Hon. Amanza Walton Desir, MP (Guyana), reflect on PGA’s Oceans Campaign, highlighting the inextricable link between human rights and the health of our oceans. They underscore the urgent need to advance the High Seas Treaty to protect marine ecosystems, uphold human rights, and secure the livelihoods of communities that depend on the ocean. In 2022, the UN General Assembly recognized a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as a universal human right (Resolution 76/300). Climate change, a threat multiplier, has placed already disenfranchised populations to bear the increasing cost of its impacts. Climate health is directly linked to the Oceans as they serve as a vital buffer against climate change, absorbing nearly one-quarter of carbon dioxide emissions and roughly 90 percent of the excess heat generated by greenhouse gas emissions. Climate threats are adversely affecting both marine and land ecosystems and populations on the forefront. Human rights defenders on environmental matters are urgently mobilizing to protect this recently adopted universal human right. Protections for both human rights defenders on environmental matters, including for Oceans and land are more urgent now than ever before. Through the Campaign to Mobilize Parliamentarians on Climate Action and the Campaign for the Protection of the Oceans and Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14, PGA Members champion these human rights protections and call for an end to impunity for crimes committed on and against the world’s oceans and their related human rights violations. The Insights by Lawmakers on Human Rights and the Environment series (#InsightsByLawmakers) highlights ongoing efforts, national experiences, lessons learned and good practices implemented by parliamentarians to advance the goals of these Campaigns. In each episode, lawmakers from around the world share their insights, raising awareness and underlining the importance of taking action to protect our Ocean, our planet, and all human rights defenders on environmental matters.

August 09, 2025

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

This year’s theme, “Indigenous Peoples and AI: Defending Rights, Shaping Futures,” highlights the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence presents for Indigenous communities.

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is held annually on 9 August since 1994. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted this Day to honor Indigenous Peoples, recognize their knowledge systems, and promote their rights. This year’s theme, “Indigenous Peoples and AI: Defending Rights, Shaping Futures,” highlights the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence presents for Indigenous communities in helping preserve endangered languages, mapping ancestral lands, and amplifying Indigenous knowledge in the fight against climate change. Yet, without the full and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples, these technologies risk reinforcing exclusion and violating their rights. Visit PGA’s resources to learn more about two landmark agreements that elevate the voices and rights of Indigenous Peoples: the Escazú Agreement— ensuring access rights in Latin America and the Caribbean, and protecting all human rights defenders in environmental matters, including Indigenous Peoples; and the High Seas Treaty—recognizing the importance of traditional knowledge from Indigenous communities in protecting marine biodiversity. Factsheet for Parliamentarians: United Nations High Seas Treaty, a Historic Agreement to Protect the Ocean Toolkit for Parliamentarians: the Escazu Agreement, Promoting Human Rights in Environmental Matters

July 18, 2025

Parliamentarians Demand Progress on the Crime of Aggression

July 17, 2025

Victims ignored, justice denied - ACT NOW!

On the 27th anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, the Global Initiative Against Impunity reaffirms the essential role of international justice in upholding the international rules-based order.

Day of International Criminal Justice – Global Initiative against Impunity Statement On the 27th anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, the Global Initiative Against Impunity reaffirms the essential role of international justice in upholding the international rules-based order. Victims and survivors of atrocity crimes must be at the heart of these processes and have the right to meaningful, equal, and effective access to justice and reparation. In the face of unprecedented threats over the past year, international justice mechanisms have demonstrated resilience and resolve. Nonetheless, we remain deeply concerned about the continued erosion of accountability that jeopardizes victims’ rights and weakens the international rule of law. In many contexts, transitional justice efforts are being undermined or co-opted, failing to confront the root causes of violence or deliver redress to those most affected. We have witnessed selective responses driven by political interests, interference and attacks that threaten the independence, impartiality and effectiveness of judicial bodies. The absence of concrete and coordinated action to preserve the international justice system—often in defiance of States’ obligations under international law—has allowed atrocities to persist and escalate, causing devastating suffering for civilians. In this difficult context, it is even more inspiring to see the unwavering commitment of human rights defenders and civil society in their fight against impunity, despite the risks they face, sometimes at the cost of their lives. Many have pursued legal action, documented and denounced atrocities, or mobilized international and national solidarity through public demonstrations. Survivors, victims’ groups, and affected communities have taken up the charge to lead efforts to demand truth, justice, and reparation, including guarantees of non-recurrence, even in the absence of institutional support, and the dearth of funding. Such determination for justice to prevail and for perpetrators to be held accountable must remain our shared guiding principles in the pursuit of international justice. To preserve the international justice system that we have collectively built over decades, we must demonstrate our commitment to human rights and democracy through firm and bold action. This moment demands responsibility from all stakeholders—States and decision-makers, international organizations, and corporate actors—to uphold their international obligations and reinforce the fight against impunity. In particular, the Global Initiative Against Impunity urges all States to deploy every tool at their disposal—legal, political, diplomatic, and economic—to honor their commitments and to: Ensure the safe and equal access of victims and survivors of international crimes, including by supporting meaningful participation in judicial processes and the implementation of reparations frameworks. This includes investing in survivor-centred, trauma-informed mechanisms that go beyond consultation and enable co-creation of justice processes at local, national, regional, and international levels. Take effective and coordinated actions to unequivocally support and strengthen international justice institutions and those who defend them, by adopting legal instruments and other safeguards that adequately protect these bodies and individuals, and by ensuring sustainable financial support. Support UN accountability mechanisms and experts in their efforts to access victims, investigate, protect, advocate for human rights, and bring about justice for international crimes. This includes adopting a firm stance and taking action, including through diplomatic pressure, in response to smear campaigns and attacks against them. Implement decisive measures to prevent international crimes and serious human rights violations, as well as the risk of complicity through activities that benefit from their commission, and ensure accountability for all perpetrators, whether individuals, states, or corporate actors. This includes respecting international legal obligations, complying with the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinions and judgments, and fully cooperating with the International Criminal Court. On the Day of International Criminal Justice, the Global Initiative Against Impunity reaffirms its commitment to advancing comprehensive justice and accountability for international crimes and serious human rights violations across the globe—including through inclusive, locally rooted transitional justice approaches that challenge structural impunity and foster long-term peace and equality—until justice works, everywhere and for all. About the Global Initiative Against Impunity The Global Initiative Against Impunity for international crimes: Making justice work (GIAI) is a Consortium of eight international NGOs and the Coalition for the ICC, co-funded by the European Union, which aims to contribute to the fight against impunity by supporting a comprehensive, integrated, and inclusive approach to justice and accountability for serious human rights violations and international crimes.

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Congratulations to Seychelles! ???????? Hon. Bernard Georges, member of @PGAction Board, who shepherded our work on the Budapest Convention in his country, was instrumental to the unanimous approval of the Cybercrime (Amendment) Act at the National Assembly on Dec 15 /2025.
— Parliamentarians for Global Action (@PGAction) December 16, 2025

To mark #HumanRightsDay and #OrangeTheWorld, #GIAI members submitted recommendations to @CedawUn, for more victim-centred, intersectional, inclusive and conflict-sensitive protection of rights of women and girls.

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— Parliamentarians for Global Action (@PGAction) December 10, 2025

Our PGA network is stronger thanks to participation from parliamentary peers at our yearly gathering of PGA's International Council and Executive Committee. Deep appreciation to all who attended and showed support for PGA's work and our shared vision. https://t.co/lXJ3msVqGj pic.twitter.com/47ZdUfEw8b
— Parliamentarians for Global Action (@PGAction) December 6, 2025

PGA participated in the Council of Europe @coe 3rd African Forum on Cybercrime. Hon. Agho @aghohon highlighted "cyber threats have become more complex, more borderless and more damaging." He called for laws that are strong, fair, forward-looking and anchored in the rule of law. pic.twitter.com/LuzpohUR2t
— Parliamentarians for Global Action (@PGAction) December 1, 2025

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