Parliaments as Peacebuilders in Conflict-Affected Countries

Potential sources of conflict whether domestic, national, or regional, can combine to create a volatile mix of cultural, economic, and political divides. Parliaments provide natural forums for addressing contentious issues in conflict-affected societies.  They can encourage inclusive political systems and discourage the kinds of enabling environments where potential conflict can escalate into violence. Evidence suggests a positive correlation or nexus between democratic governance and sustainable, long-term development. This book explores the nexus between parliaments, poverty reduction and conflict prevention and how parliamentarians can contribute to managing the challenges.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

12:00 - 2:00 pm

World Bank I Building

Room  I-2-250

1850 I Street, NW

Washington, DC

MODERATED BY

Edith Grace Ssempala, World Bank Director of International Affairs, and former Ugandan Permanent Representative to the African Union and the United Nation's Economic Commission for Africa

PRESENTED BY

Rick Stapenhurst, Senior Public Sector Management Specialist and Team Leader of the Parliamentary Program at the World Bank Institute.

DISCUSSED BY

John, Lord Alderdice (by video), former leader of the Northern Ireland's cross-community Alliance Party (1987-1998), and the first speaker of the new Northern Ireland Assembly (1998-2004)

William F. Shija (by video), Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Associationand former member of the National Assembly of Tanzania

Niall Johnston (by video), former Director of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association

Rasheed Draman, Director of Africa Programs at the Parliamentary Centre of Canada

Please click here to purchase this publication.

See also:  Parliamentary Reform in East and Southern Africa