Press Releases

Guyana is set to host the 46th Conference of the Caribbean, the Americas, and the Atlantic Region of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) from September 1 – 7, 2024. The Regional Conference will bring together Parliamentarians and Clerks from jurisdictions across the CPA CAA Region for discussions on the theme, "Democracy: Challenges Facing Modern Parliaments."

The Opening Ceremony for the Conference is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Monday, September 2, 2024, at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown. The ceremony will last for one hour, after which participants will proceed to the Public Buildings for an Official Photo.

Throughout the week, a series of Plenary Sessions will be held in the Chamber and in Committee Rooms 1 and 2 at the Public Buildings, Brickdam, Georgetown. The sessions will cover critical topics including Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare Access for Women and Girls, Gender Sensitive Parliaments – Toolkit/Guidelines, Peace and Security, and Migration. Presenters from various countries in the region, including Hon. Gail Teixeira, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance and Government Chief Whip, Guyana, will contribute their expertise. Hon. Teixeira will present on "Accountability: Effective Oversight Committees," and other sessions will delve into "The Experiences of Women Presiding Officers" and "Building Greater Autonomy for Houses."

Additionally, the week of activity will see the hosting of the 17th Regional Youth Parliament, where Youth Parliamentarians from across the region will debate on topical issues. This platform provides a unique opportunity for the next generation of leaders to engage with contemporary challenges and contribute to shaping the future of the region.

Guyana takes pride in hosting this significant event, reinforcing its position as a pivotal member of the CPA CAA Region. It is noteworthy that the Hon. Manzoor Nadir, M.P., Speaker of the National Assembly, was, this June, elected Chairperson of the CPA CAA Region. The Secretariat has been based in the Parliament of Guyana, having moved from its previous location in Barbados, in October 2023.