Speaker addresses the 6th World Conference of Speakers in Geneva

The Speaker of the Fijian Parliament the Hon. Filimone Jitoko attended the Sixth World Conference of Speakers, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.

Hosted by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in collaboration with the United Nations, the conference brought together over 100 Speakers and presiding officers from national parliaments around the globe, for discussions on the future of democratic governance.

The Conference focused on the theme: “A World in Turmoil: Parliamentary Cooperation and Multilateralism for Peace, Justice and Prosperity for All.”

The Hon. Speaker stressed that the theme speaks powerfully to our current moment.

“As legislators and representatives of the people, we are confronted with converging global crises—climate emergencies, humanitarian disasters, deepening political divides, and escalating threats to democratic norms.”

“In the midst of this turbulence, one truth stands firm: no nation, no community, and no parliament can tackle these challenges alone.”

“That is why parliamentary cooperation and multilateralism are not mere options—they are vital. These are not luxuries, but strategic instruments for driving meaningful progress.”

The Conference was also an opportunity for the Hon. Speaker to highlight challenges faced by the Small Island Developing States.

“As a small island developing state in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, Fiji knows adversity intimately.”

“Alongside our Pacific neighbours, we stand on the frontlines of climate change facing the rising challenges imposed by the adverse impacts of climate change, with rising temperatures and sea levels.”

“We continue to chart paths through political reform, economic rebuilding, and the lingering effects of a global pandemic. Yet through it all, our people remain hopeful, resilient, and deeply rooted in the values of democracy.”

After the three days of debate and negotiations, the Speakers adopted a High-level Declaration outlining the key transitions that are needed to advance peace, justice and prosperity, underpinned by a renewed commitment to deepen parliamentary engagement with the United Nations through a call for stronger and more effective multilateralism.

The Declaration highlighted the need for greater collaboration and enhanced political will to tackle issues including climate change, armed conflict, economic instability, and digital transformation.

Parliamentary leaders underscored the view that global challenges require coordinated responses and solidarity among nations.