On the second day of the 12th IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, the Maltese parliamentary delegation, composed of Mariah Meli and Annabelle Cilia, continued its contribution to discussions on human rights, sustainable development, youth economic rights and political participation.
During today's sessions, the delegation attended a training session on combating violence against women in politics, as well as an Unconference, which provided young parliamentarians with an opportunity to propose and lead discussions on issues of their choice.
During the training session on combating violence against women in politics, attended by Hon. Mariah Meli, young parliamentarians were presented with a case scenario addressing violence against parliamentarians and invited to discuss possible responses and measures to tackle such challenges.
Mariah Meli shared her own experiences as a parliamentarian, noting that violence against women in politics can take different forms, including harassment, and can have a significant impact on those in public life. She highlighted the importance of recognising and addressing such behaviour and creating a political environment based on respect and dignity.
During her intervention, Mariah Meli also highlighted the important role of education and the responsible use of social media in addressing violence against women in politics. She noted that greater awareness and education can help young people recognise harmful behaviour, promote respectful online engagement and ensure that social media becomes part of the solution rather than contributing to the problem.
She further emphasised that respect must remain at the centre of political and public discourse, extending not only to parliamentarians themselves but also to their families, who can also be affected by harassment and hostility directed towards those in public life.
Annabelle Cilia also participated in the Unconference, which was divided into two sessions addressing International Maritime Routes as a Human Rights Issue and the Safeguard of Global Energy Security and Human Rights of Women in Situations of Communal Conflict and War.
During the session on the human rights of women in situations of communal conflict and war, Cilia outlined three key pillars for protecting women's rights in times of conflict: prevention, accountability and survivor support. She noted that these elements must work together to address both the causes and consequences of violence.
On prevention, Annabelle Cilia highlighted the need to address inequalities, discrimination and harmful social norms that can increase women's vulnerability to violence. On accountability, she emphasised the importance of proper investigations, holding perpetrators responsible, and strengthening national legislation and justice mechanisms to protect women's rights.
The third pillar, survivor support, was highlighted as essential to enabling women affected by conflict to recover and rebuild their lives with dignity. Annabelle Cilia emphasised the importance of access to medical and psychological support, safe accommodation and legal assistance, as well as education and employment opportunities to support their recovery, independence and reintegration.
The conference concluded today with the presentation of the Outcome Document of the 12th IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians, reaffirming the commitment of young parliamentarians to reclaim human rights, justice and dignity for all in today's turbulent times.
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