Home Highlights 2025 Preparing for the term ahead: Trinidad and Tobago Parliament holds Post-Election Seminar

Preparing for the term ahead: Trinidad and Tobago Parliament holds Post-Election Seminar

June 26, 2025 | Activity

Photo Credit: Office of the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago

With the start of a new legislative term in Trinidad and Tobago following the 2025 general elections, ParlAmericas supported the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago in convening a Post-Election Seminar from June 24 to 26, 2025, in Port of Spain. Newly elected and returning parliamentarians came together to refresh and strengthen their understanding of the roles and responsibilities of parliamentarians and presiding officers, parliamentary procedures, and good practices related to legislation, oversight, and representation.

Current and former parliamentarians and parliamentary staff from Trinidad and Tobago, Canada, Barbados, Guyana, and Montserrat, contributed to the seminar’s discussions, sharing their expertise and experiences. This peer exchange was a valuable component of the program, offering participants focused, practical guidance to enhance their contributions in the legislature. Strategies for effective questioning of ministers and participation in parliamentary debates were notable highlights from the session.

Fostering inclusion and accessibility in parliamentary work emerged as a key theme, both in a dedicated session and throughout the broader discussions. Participants reflected on equality and accessibility within parliament and as a focus of legislative work. They also explored ways to engage the public in legislative processes to improve outcomes and promote more representative governance. These issues were highlighted as especially critical in light of declining public trust in institutions worldwide, and the unique role parliamentarians play as direct representatives of the people.

In an era marked by complex and persistent global challenges, programs like this serve as a timely reminder that democracy must be continuously nurtured. The initiative underscored the importance of ongoing learning and collaboration in supporting parliamentarians and building strong, responsive, and accountable parliaments. ParlAmericas remains committed to providing technical assistance to its member parliaments to achieve these goals and was pleased to partner with the CPA and the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago on this important program.

Photo Credit: Office of the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago
ParlAmericas’ support to this activity was made possible through the generous support of the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada.