UN chief urges parliaments everywhere to play their full part for a better future
Guterres said as a former parliamentarian, he is deeply conscious of the responsibility and privilege of representing people and delivering on their aspirations
The United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday issued a message through a press release, commemorating the International Day of Parliamentarism.
The UN chief deemed International Day of Parliamentarism as a timely occasion to honour the pivotal role of parliaments in giving people a voice and influence to shape policy.
Guterres said as a former parliamentarian, he is deeply conscious of the responsibility and privilege of representing people and delivering on their aspirations.
He added that parliaments have a special duty to advance human rights and promote sustainable development.
More than ever, the Covid-19 pandemic reminder of those vital tasks, he added.
The UN chief said that as the world responds to the pandemic, the critical importance of adequate health systems, robust social safety networks, and equitable economic growth that generates decent jobs are more visible than ever.
"We also see the most vulnerable in our societies, especially women, bearing the greatest burden. Inequalities, stigmas, divisions and the fragilities of our world have multiplied before our eyes," he said.
Guterres said the world must act together to rebuild a more equal, resilient and greener future for all; and urged national parliaments everywhere to play their full part in advancing sustainable, inclusive responses, in collaboration with civil society, national action plans against racial discrimination.
"At the same time, let's remember that no nation can succeed on its own. Let us seize every opportunity to reshape and secure our common future, take ambitious climate action and place human rights and human dignity at the core of our work.
Thank you," he added.