The Speaker of Parliament of Ghana, Alban Bagbin, has called for stronger parliamentary action to promote peace, justice and inclusive development.
Delivering Ghana’s statement at the 152nd Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Istanbul, Mr. Bagbin underscored the importance of nurturing hope, securing peace and ensuring justice as key pillars for sustainable development.
He described hope as a reflection of confidence in systems that promote inclusive growth, protect livelihoods and create opportunities, particularly for young people.
Mr. Bagbin noted that lasting peace goes beyond the absence of conflict and must be anchored in justice, equity and resilient institutions.
The Speaker highlighted the critical role of parliaments in advancing these ideals, pointing to Ghana’s experience in parliamentary oversight of environmental policies and social protection programmes.
He explained that Parliament remains central to translating national aspirations into laws, policies and accountability mechanisms through its legislative, oversight and representative functions.
Mr. Bagbin, however, acknowledged that despite Ghana’s democratic stability, the country continues to face several challenges.
These include economic inequality, youth unemployment, weak institutional capacity, environmental degradation and security threats.
He also drew attention to emerging risks such as misinformation, cybersecurity concerns and unequal access to digital technologies.
The Speaker further referenced ongoing government interventions in education, youth empowerment and social protection, as well as judicial reforms aimed at improving access to justice.
He concluded by calling for stronger collaboration and political will, stressing that building a peaceful, just and hopeful society requires deliberate and sustained efforts.
Mr. Bagbin emphasised that safeguarding the future of coming generations depends on the collective commitment of leaders and institutions to uphold justice and inclusive development.
