Democratic Renewal and Human Rights Campaign
Day 1 (16 December):
The Antidote to Authoritarianism: Parliamentarians as champions of democratic principles and institutions
Date: 16th of December 2021
Time: 8:00am – 11:30am (EST) / 14:00 - 17:30 (CET)
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The years 2020 and 2021 have been characterized by the global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Governments have taken emergency measures in the name of curtailing the spread of the virus which have included violations of human rights (including civil and political rights) and resulted in further discrimination and oppression of vulnerable populations and contributed to the erosion of democratic principles and institutions and the rise of authoritarianism.
Globally, democracy is in decline. This trend is aggravated by the dangerous rise in disinformation, the dismantling of protections for press freedom, including the weaponization of the media to attack individuals or groups perceived as a threat, and the decreasing independence of the judiciary.
In certain regions, authoritarian regimes have gained momentum in the political arena by leading their populations with fear, which has contributed to the radicalization of the political landscape. At the same time, social media has fundamentally shifted the nature of the public discourse and the way information is shared between the citizenry and their government; authoritarian governments have also capitalized on the use of social media platforms to spread misinformation and propaganda. Media freedom has become increasingly important to ensure that populations are informed and, consequently, can act to protect fundamental as well as civil and political rights.
Issues for Discussion:
Parliamentarians play a key role in protecting democracy and human rights. The PGA Annual Forum will explore how, as representatives of the people, legislators can resist attacks on democracy, shape national agendas, resist executive incursions, and work with civil society to preserve civic and political spaces, even if, increasingly, they themselves are at risk.
Parliamentarians and experts will discuss the global rise of authoritarianism and share best practices, strategies and tools for protecting democracy.
Campaign for the Protection of the Oceans and Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14
Day 2 (17 December):
Consultative Assembly of Parliamentarians for the Oceans (CAP-Oceans)
Date: 17th of December 2021
Time: 8:00am – 11:30am (EST) / 14:00 - 17:30 (CET)
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The global COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted fisheries and aquaculture food systems. Necessary and life-saving protective measures taken by governments have disrupted national and international seafood supply chains. Fisheries management processes have been adversely impacted in an industry already challenged by hazardous working conditions and other human rights violations. Parliamentarians are in the best position to provide long-lasting solutions that protect fish workers, empower impoverished fishing communities, and secure the right to food.
The Oceans absorb nearly one-third of carbon dioxide emissions and roughly 90% of the excess heat retained by greenhouse gases. Establishing Marine Protected Area networks is critical to maintaining climate change resilience and rebuilding ecological and social resilience. PGA has therefore engaged in a new partnership with the Blue Nature Alliance, highlighting combined efforts to protect 30% of the Oceans by 2030.
Issues for Discussion:
Following up on the commitments made at the first Consultative Assembly of Parliamentarians for the Oceans (CAP-Oceans), lawmakers will work together on exploring creative solutions towards protecting the rights and safety of those working in the fishing industry, while at the same time conserving our oceans to build resilience to climate change, maintain essential biodiversity, and support the air we breathe.
