Description

President's Message

1997 proved to be a monumentally successful year for Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA) . Remarkable advancements were made in our program work as well as our membership development. We now have almost 1,300 members from 99 parliaments around the globe, representing all major political parties.

As Parliamentarians for Global Action ends its second decade, it is important that we prepare ourselves for sustaining the activism of this organization through the 21st century. The future of this organization depends primarily on two factors: First is the very network of legislators that comprise PGA and work together to advance its vision. We must continue to develop and expand our membership of activist parliamentarians, government and opposition, men and women. The results of PGA's work are rendered more effective and more enduring as our active membership steadily increases in size and stature and as PGA's parliamentary groups continue to democratize and expand.

The second factor that will greatly affect our future is the strengthening of the governance of PGA. Our governance (Board and Council)—along with our management—need to be strengthened and restructured. This year, the Secretary-General, Shazia Rafi, and I have worked to make certain that PGA is transparent, collaborative, open and truly engaged in the issues. Parliamentarians for Global Action is currently engaged in a comprehensive strategic review. While our dynamic network of legislators has proven itself an effective means to respond to international crises as well as on-going program work, this strategic review will ensure that PGA's institutional structure is sound and lasting. As we approach the 2nd millenium, PGA's work—on peace and democracy issues, international law and human rights, population and sustainable development, empowerment of women and economic revitalization—must continue to flourish, making the world a better place for us all.

PGA's International President, Mr. Moses Kafiiuongua, MP (Namibia)