On the occasion of International Day of Parliamentarism (June 30), while calling parliaments as cornerstone of democracy, the UN stated, “In COVID-19 times, Parliaments and other government institutions are subject to the same social distancing measures as other public and private organizations. Yet, in a time of crisis, the role of parliament is more vital than ever to pass emergency laws, allocate resources and scrutinize government action. Some parliaments are modifying laws and procedures to allow for remote working.”
The UN Secretary-General António Guterr, in his message stayed, “As the world responds to the pandemic, we see the critical importance of adequate health systems, robust social safety networks, and equitable economic growth that generates decent jobs.”
According to the UN, parliamentary systems of government improve the day-to-day lives of people the world over as well as are needed to play a vital role in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
Some other pertinent points made by UN are as follows.
-In countries emerging from conflict, robust parliaments can help make possible a peaceful transition to a functioning democracy by healing divisions in society through dialogue and cooperation.
-Parliaments and parliamentary organizations have played an active role throughout the negotiations on the post-2015 development framework, advocating strongly, for instance, for the inclusion of goals related to democratic governance.
- Goal 16 of the Sustainable Development Goals is dedicated to the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable institutions at all levels.
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