Last year, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) celebrated 100 years of parliamentary strengthening and diplomacy. In the century since 1911, against a backdrop of changing geopolitical structures, economic flux and the establishment of democracy as the predominant global system of government, the CPA has managed to adhere to its original purpose – as a forum for “closer understanding and more frequent intercourse between those engaged in the parliamentary government of the component parts of the [Commonwealth]”.
The UK branch of the CPA approaches its work in three ways: via international parliamentary conferences, focused topical seminars and parliamentary strengthening programmes conducted between member parliaments, while constantly seeking to improve both quality and reach.
Leveraging resources and avoiding duplication is crucial in tough economic times, when there is even greater need for a strengthened sense of accountability. Seeking value for money is of prime importance and so, in accordance with Recommendation 87 of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG), which calls for increased coordination and collaboration, CPA UK strives to partner with other Commonwealth bodies, NGOs and civil society organisations. Recent examples include the Westminster Workshop on the Public Accounts Committee, organised in collaboration with the National Audit Office and the Commonwealth Secretariat. In addition, CPA UK signed a memorandum of understanding with VSO (an international charity that uses skilled volunteers to combat poverty around the world) which focused on improving governance in Commonwealth countries.
CPA UK sees the century ahead as a continuation of the opportunity to improve; however, the aim of the CPA remains constant. It strives to ensure that parliamentarians have the capability and influence to act for those they represent, and to work to achieve the Commonwealth’s values of development, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
