By REGINALD KANYANE
13 October 2024 – The National Assembly (NA) Deputy Speaker, Dr Annalie Lotriet has called for parliamentarians to advocate for safety zones in conflict-ridden regions to protect expectant mothers and mothers of young children, older people and people living with disabilities. Lotriet spoke during a panel discussion on promoting and preserving women’s and girls’ rights at the 149th assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland.
“As parliamentarians, we must advocate for effective interventions and support the establishment of safe
zones to protect the civilian population, particularly expectant mothers and mothers of young children, children, the elderly, and people living with disabilities.
“International humanitarian and human rights laws outline specific protections for women in conflict, safeguarding them against various forms of abuse and guaranteeing access to essential necessities,” she said.
Lotriet further said, however, it is deeply troubling that in the present day, numerous countries continue to contravene these laws, leaving millions of women and girls in dire circumstances. She added that they are deprived of essentials such as food, safe water, toilets, washrooms, sanitary pads, and living in inhuman and disease-ridden conditions.
“We urge parliamentarians to work together to ensure that the voices of vulnerable women and girls are heard, and their rights are upheld, as outlined in the existing international humanitarian law.
“Madam President, how many more women and girls must suffer before decisive action is taken to bring peace to the Middle East and other conflict-driven regions?” said Lotriet.
She said it is the duty of every parliament to ensure that these violations are addressed and rectified, to uphold the rights of women and to implement measures that guarantee their access to essential services during times of conflict. Lotriet said it was important that parliamentarians return to their respective parliaments and ensure that necessary legislation is enacted to address human rights not only during conflict but also during peacetime and post-conflict.
Meanwhile, the 149th IPU assembly is held under the theme: “Harnessing science, technology, and innovation (STI) for a more peaceful and sustainable future.” This is the first time a delegation of the 7th parliament is attending the IPU Assembly, a decision-making body where parliamentarians from 180 national member parliaments adopt resolutions.
The IPU is the global organisation of national parliaments. What began in 1889 as a small group of parliamentarians dedicated to promoting peace through parliamentary diplomacy and dialogue has since grown into a truly global organisation with 180 members and 15 associate members.
The IPU facilitates parliamentary diplomacy and empowers parliaments and parliamentarians to promote peace, democracy and sustainable development around the world.
The Guardian 