Andorra Delegation Pushes Transparency and Inclusion at IPU Assembly in Tanzania

Andorra's parliamentary delegation, led by General Subsindica Sandra Codina, advocated for transparency, trust, and citizen participation to ensure effective governance at the 153rd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) assembly in Arusha, Tanzania, from October 4 to 9.

Codina addressed the general debate, arguing that good governance should be measured by its effects on citizens' daily lives. She emphasised that institutional trust must be built daily and stressed the need for women, young people, and diverse social groups to have real influence in public decisions. The event drew nearly 700 parliamentarians from more than 130 countries, focusing on inclusion, trust, and community opportunities.

The delegation, comprising Codina, General Councillors Maria Àngels Aché, Pere Baró, and Marcos Monteagudo, engaged in several thematic forums. Aché spoke at the Women's Parliamentary Forum, detailing Andorra's gender parity in the General Council, women's roles in government, and the Network of Women Parliamentarians aimed at increasing female political involvement.

At the Young Parliamentarians Forum, Baró contributed to discussions on parliaments' role in protecting mountain and ocean ecosystems, supporting the target to conserve 30% by 2030. Monteagudo examined challenges and progress in youth political participation.

Codina, Aché, and Baró represented Andorra at the first session of the IPU's governing council, which requires balanced gender representation. The assembly admitted Nauru's parliament as a new member and elected Milton Dick, Speaker of Australia's House of Representatives since 2022, as IPU president. He committed to leading with honesty, integrity, and the organisation's priorities.

The group also attended meetings of the 12+ geopolitical group, which the General Council joined in 1995 upon entering the IPU. They proposed and voted on IPU leadership candidates.

The assembly concluded with two resolutions: one calling for urgent parliamentary action on climate disasters to enhance resilience in vulnerable areas, and another promoting inclusion of people with disabilities for human rights, democratic representation, and sustainable development. The Arusha Communiqué urged parliaments to use data to evaluate impacts on women, youth, and vulnerable groups, while bolstering accountability, transparency, integrity, and openness.

Andorran representatives met with the IPU's secretary general and new president during the event.