Statement for Peace in the Hemisphere
The ParlAmericas Board of Directors expresses its concern about increasing levels of violence and it calls for peace in the hemisphere.
Sustainable peace is a pre-condition for the exercise of fundamental rights, including democratic engagement. Recognizing the universal principle of sovereignty and unique situation of each country in the region, ParlAmericas respectfully calls on political actors to pursue measures to guarantee conditions for citizen security and meaningful participation in public life, with specific attention to gender and other intersectional identities. This includes measures to ensure the personal integrity and security of parliamentarians, electoral candidates and persons engaged in peaceful assembly to express political opinions.
ParlAmericas rejects all forms of violence and reiterates the importance of utilizing responsible political discourse and dialogue to foster inclusive and peaceful societies. ParlAmericas also reaffirms its support to the advancement of Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), under which countries of the hemisphere have committed to reducing violence, ensuring equal access to justice for victims, and promoting responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making.