https://www.pgaction.org en-gb Wed, 11 Nov 2026 08:51:51 +0000 Wed, 11 Nov 2026 08:51:51 +0000 Elxis 5.6 240 https://www.pgaction.org/media/images/logo_rss.png https://www.pgaction.org The Role of Parliamentarians in Promoting Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance and Safeguards
3rd December 2026 | 8:00am - 10:00am EST Register Here >> Humanity's relationship with Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at an inflection point. Disturbing developments in a growing number of countries worldwide in 2026 have triggered a new sense of urgency on the need for international action to address risks and threats posed by AI. While intensive dialogue in different fora surrounding this issue continues, it is now abundantly clear that concrete action is long overdue. Equally evident is the fact that failure to act, in the near future, will expose the global community to these exponentially growing threats, some of which are existential in nature. Acknowledging this rapidly emerging global catastrophic risk, over 30 States worldwide as well as the European Commission issued a Call for Control of Frontier AI Models. In parallel, a growing number of States have also called for a multilateral UN-based solution, including the possibility of setting up an international mechanism/institution with oversight responsibility.  In September 2026 at the United Nations, Singapore formally called on all UN Member States to explore the possibility of adopting a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards. This call for multilateral action has been echoed in other settings as well.  The international community stands at a crossroads. Dialogue must continue, but not at the expense of action now.  Why parliamentarians? Mobilizing efforts to strengthen international cooperation in promoting adoption of AI safeguards is a central component in meeting this moment of peril for the international community. Parliamentarians, both as lawmakers and advocates, play a key role in the drafting, approval, enactment, and enforcement of legislation implementing international treaties. Parliamentarians can also be impactful change makers and ‘champions’, engaging in active and effective advocacy and outreach to generate vital political will to support adoption of much needed international frameworks. Parliamentarians often have a privileged relationship of proximity with relevant Government Ministries, by virtue of the prerogatives of oversight and accountability that they exercise in their respective countries.  Taking account of this reality, PGA has recently launched a Global Parliamentary Declaration supporting the proposal for adoption of a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards. The Declaration has already been signed by over 50 Parliamentarians in more than 30 countries worldwide.   This thematic discussion will allow Parliamentarians to learn from technical experts and engage with each other on risks, challenges and opportunities, and jointly identify tangible steps  to safeguard international peace and security from the risks and threats posed by AI.   Register Here >> ]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/international-council-meeting-2026-december.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/international-council-meeting-2026-december.html Thu, 05 Nov 2026 19:13:00 +0000 A dialogue among current and former parliamentarians and experts to share experiences, strategies, and recommendations to protect women political leaders in the digital space.
Parliamentarians for Global Action convened a dialogue among current and former parliamentarians and experts to share experiences, strategies, and recommendations to protect women political leaders in the digital space. The dialogue sought to raise awareness and build political will to implement concrete actions that prevent digital violence at the national level. Recommended actions Parliamentarians can take to address digital gender-based violence: From Zara Rahman, SUPERRR: Understand what constitutes ‘harmful images’ in your context by listening to survivors Review existing laws and work on enforcement Create survivor-centered reporting pathways Support trauma-informed approaches to digital violence Hold tech platforms accountable for their role: introduce penalties for companies that fail to remove unlawful content. From Jenny Brunner, HateAid Encourage the chairperson of your political party to: Designate an internal party contact point for those affected by digital violence with resources to support reporting and securing evidence. Proactively protect candidates.  From Parliamentarians for Global Action: Sign on to PGA Global Parliamentary Declaration for Adoption of a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards Join a WhatsApp group of like-minded current and former legislators to share experiences and good practices to address digital gender-based violence.  Kindly send a message to indicating consent to join the WhatsApp group. Agenda 8:00 am Welcome, context and housekeeping Ms. Mónica Adame, Secretary-General, Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA) 8:10 am Opening remarks by moderator Hon. Amanza Walton Desir, MP (Guyana), PGA Executive Committee Member 8:20 – 8:35 What is digital gender-based violence and what can we do about it? Ms. Zara Rahman Zara Rahman is a British-Bangladeshi author, researcher and non-profit executive whose interests lie at the intersection of power, technology and justice. She is currently co-Managing Director at SUPERRR Lab, a feminist non-profit working to expand the role digital technologies play in our societies to be in service of justice and hope. 8:35 – 8:50 Under Attack & Abandoned: How digital violence affects political engagement and how we can fix it Ms. Jenny Brunner Jenny Brunner is a political campaigner for the German human rights organization HateAid. She led HateAid’s study on violence against women in politics and works to ensure that the organization’s demands for a safer internet are heard by politicians and the public. 8:50- 9:05 Turning personal experience of digital gender-based violence into action Dip. Claudia Dobles Camargo (Costa Rica) Dip. Dobles Camargo is a Costa Rican architect, urban planner and current member of the Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica. She previously served as the First Lady of Costa Rica from 2018 to 2022. 9:05 – 9:50 Open Discussion Among Participants/Questions and Answers What kinds of approaches to addressing digital violence have you seen in your country and what has helped address the problem? How can parliamentarians better support and listen to civil society organizations that support victims of gender-based violence? What advice would you offer to young women entering, or considering, politics? 9:50 – 10:00 Closing Reflections and key takeaways Hon. Walton Desir and Ms. Adame ]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/addressing-digital-violence.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/addressing-digital-violence.html Wed, 28 Oct 2026 17:54:00 +0000 We recognize also the necessity to harness this extraordinary emerging technology in a way which continues to foster innovation as well as achieving life changing scientific advances
Parliamentarians, as influential advocates and lawmakers, make decisive contributions in promoting the adoption of, and subsequent signature and ratification of vital international treaties. It is clear that action is now urgently needed to address the risks, threats and challenges posed by unregulated AI - in a coordinated multilateral way. Appropriate guardrails and AI safety are in the best interests of everyone, including those at the forefront of AI development and research. Several countries have already identified the need for an international instrument. In September 2026, at the United Nations in New York, Singapore formally proposed for the first time that the international community should consider a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards. As PGA has done before in connection with other serious global challenges, such as for the negotiation and adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty, this Global Parliamentary Declaration seeks to mobilize parliamentarians worldwide to encourage their governments to promptly engage in support of negotiations for a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards. Signing this Global Parliamentary Declaration sends a powerful message of support and solidarity among parliamentarians and across boundaries that failure to meet this moment with political will and cooperation will have consequences that none of us will wish to bear. PGA Global Parliamentary Declaration for Adoption of a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards Humanity is adapting to a world in which artificial intelligence (AI) plays an increasingly central role in our daily existence. We recognize and embrace the extraordinary promise and potential of AI in improving the quality of our personal and professional lives. We recognize also the necessity to harness this extraordinary emerging technology in a way that continues to foster innovation as well as achieving life changing scientific advances, in addition to attaining many other progress indicators in agriculture, education, trade and healthcare, among other sectors. Mindful, however, that, if left inadequately regulated, artificial intelligence can be perilous, posing profound risks, threats and challenges, including some that we may not yet be able to fully comprehend, and which could also be existential in nature. This stark reality must be addressed effectively and immediately, given the speed at which AI development and research is evolving, largely unrestrained, most notably in the context of so-called frontier AI models. We are alarmed by the rapid increase of reported incidents of autonomous AI breaches of sensitive government and corporate sites as well as by numerous reports on the genuine possibilities for AI facilitated development of bioweapons and other weapons of mass destruction. We are equally disturbed by the grave threats posed to human rights, democracy and the rule of law by inadequate AI regulation. Cognizant also of the need for all countries worldwide to be engaged in addressing these threats and challenges, not merely those where AI frontier models are currently being developed, as the consequences of development and research in AI impact all people in all countries worldwide Highlight that AI must always remain under human direction, oversight and control and be developed and used in conformity with international law. Highlight also that secure and safe AI is integral to future development and that confidence in the safety of AI models and systems is a cornerstone of trade prosperity. The two propositions are mutually reinforcing, not mutually exclusive endeavors. Taking into account also, in this connection, that those calling for greater governance of AI include many prominent private sector entities that are at the forefront of the development of next-generation AI frontier models and systems. Recognizing also the following significant initiatives, among many others, already undertaken calling for improved regulation and governance of AI: UN General Assembly Resolution of November 21st 2024 on the promotion of safe, secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence (AI) systems for sustainable development The Global Call for Red Lines to Prevent Unacceptable AI Risks Launched during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025 The UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance The February 2026 New Delhi AI Declaration, endorsed by 88 countries formally recognizing the importance of security in AI systems The September 2026 AI Declaration signed by 30 countries worldwide as well as the European Union at the United Nations, calling for the control of frontier AI models, urging countries to coordinate common standards and implement pre-deployment safety testing as well as exploring the possibility of creating an institution that is able to set standards, enable verification, and convene countries when capability thresholds are crossed The September 2026 call for consideration of adoption of a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards by Singapore and supported by other States We, parliamentarians from across the globe, endorse the call made at the United Nations in September 2026 to explore the possibility of adopting a United Nations Framework Convention on AI Safeguards. We agree that any sustainable international approach. must give all countries a meaningful role, not only those with the most advanced frontier AI models. Everyone is impacted by AI. We also agree that global cooperation over AI must begin now and that multilateral regulation in this arena is a benefit, not a hindrance to continued AI development and research. Such rules and regulations provide vital reassurances and confidence which are essential prerequisites for AI to evolve further and more effectively for the benefit of all. We urge countries to mobilize without delay and to introduce a Resolution at the UN General Assembly to initiate the process leading to negotiation of a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards. As parliamentarians, making full use of the important prerogatives we have at our disposal, we stand ready in our respective countries to lend our robust support to address these risks, threats and challenges in an effective way.]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/artificial-intelligence-safeguards-declaration.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/artificial-intelligence-safeguards-declaration.html Fri, 23 Oct 2026 10:35:00 +0000 Each year on 10 October, the global abolitionist movement comes together to observe the World Day Against the Death Penalty. In 2026 and 2027, commemorations will highlight the human lives affected by the death penalty.
The death penalty affects individuals. The psychological and physical suffering it causes, that can amount to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, impacts many lives: not only the persons on death row themselves, but also their families and close relatives, the victims’ families (as capital punishment can inflict further harm and retraumatize victims), and all actors within the criminal justice and prison systems. The humanity of these individuals is often neglected – if not rendered invisible – thereby marginalizing their testimonies even though it is precisely their stories that highlight the cruelty and discriminatory nature of this punishment. This is the core message of the 2026 and 2027 World Day Against the Death Penalty, “Stories for Life”, observed by the abolitionist movement on 10 October and supported by Parliamentarians for Global Action. The theme “Stories for Life” reminds us that it is crucial to bear in mind that the application of the death penalty, or the persistent threat of execution, affects our entire society. There can be no truly meaningful justice unless it is grounded in respect for human rights and accountability. As long as the death penalty remains in law, the risk of irreversible wrongful conviction and human rights violations persist. As parliamentarians, it is our duty to ensure that the lived realities of those affected by the death penalty inform public debate, and to work through legislative channels to abolish this cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment. Hon. Heatha Miller, MP (Jamaica), PGA Member Humanizing the persons affected by the death penalty In a world where security-focused rhetoric exploits the myth of deterrence, a minority of States continue to execute individuals to instill fear and control. Recent data indicates a dramatic 78% increase in executions and 2,707 recorded cases in 2025, according to Amnesty International. Many proceedings related to the death penalty processes often occur in the shadows, making it difficult to grasp the harsh reality and the suffering of those directly affected by capital punishment. Governments frequently withhold information, which equally prevents acknowledging the structural, social and individual factors that may have contributed to an individual to be in conflict with the law, and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations. In such a context, it is our responsibility to listen to the persons directly impacted by the death penalty, shedding light on their lived experiences and testimonies. Testimonies from directly impacted persons have fueled the advocacy of civil society organizations and paved the way for progress. In Pakistan, this engagement led us, parliamentarians, to set my country on a path toward narrowing the scope of the death penalty, notably by removing capital punishment for drug-related offenses in 2023. This reform addresses a persistent concern, as many States continue to impose the death penalty for these crimes in the name of the “war on drugs,” despite the practice being strictly prohibited under international law. There is still a long way to go, including ensuring judicial sensitization and implementing reforms, but I remain committed to listening and amplifying the voices of persons directly affected, and upholding human rights. Hon. Barrister Danyal Chaudhry, MP (Pakistan), PGA Member Parliamentarians as allies to the abolitionist movement Parliamentarians act as a bridge between their constituents and the law. As representatives, they can amplify the stories and expose the realities lived by persons directly impacted by the death penalty, which are too often absent from policy debates. By giving visibility to the realities of persons on death row, parliamentarians can shift the narrative from abstract security arguments to restorative justice and human rights.   Aware of the realities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, I decided to conduct an inquiry, in collaboration with the network of parliamentarians for the abolition of the death penalty, to shed light on the detention conditions of persons on death row in the country’s penal institutions. Conducting such a survey and interviewing the persons on death row makes it possible to highlight violations of their human rights and dignity – violations that run counter to the very principles of justice. The current situation does not foster accountability in my country. There is a need to improve the prison system, and the abolition of the death penalty is a part of that process.” Hon. Christelle Vuanga, MP (DRC), member of PGA Executive Committee and Convenor of the International Law and Human Rights Program To engage alongside the abolitionist movement, parliamentarians can: Listen to the people directly impacted by the death penalty and monitor cases, asking for more transparency in data related to the death penalty; Adopt legislation to abolish the death penalty or reduce its scope, and implement a moratorium on executions; Engage in public debate, highlighting the risks of wrongful convictions, the proven lack of deterrence, and the discriminatory nature of capital punishment; Work closely with civil society, including victims’ groups, to build a path towards abolition; Collaborate with parliamentarians across party lines and from other countries to identify strategies and learn from other experiences; Call on governments to support and vote in favor of the United Nations General Assembly Resolution for a Moratorium on the Use of the Death Penalty, scheduled for vote in December 2026. On this World Day, Parliamentarians for Global Action calls upon its members to support the abolitionist movement, highlighting the experiences of the persons directly affected by the death penalty, raising public awareness, and taking action towards the universal abolition of the death penalty. ]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/24th-world-day-against-the-death-penalty.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/24th-world-day-against-the-death-penalty.html Thu, 08 Oct 2026 15:53:00 +0000 28 Novemberr 2026
Event: Addressing Digital Gender-based Violence When: 28 October 2026 Description: Please join us for a dialogue among current and former parliamentarians and experts to share experiences, strategies, and recommendations to protect women political leaders in the digital space. The dialogue seeks to raise awareness and build political will to implement concrete actions that prevent digital violence at the national level. Who can Attend: Open to all current and former members of parliament For more information, please contact the Democracy Gender and Inclusion Program.]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/activity-calendars/events/addressing-digital-gender-based-violence.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/activity-calendars/events/addressing-digital-gender-based-violence.html Wed, 07 Oct 2026 21:16:00 +0000 Parliamentarians around the world are alarmed about the accelerating rate of withdrawals from the Rome Statute in 2026, with the formal withdrawal of Naoero increasing the threat to the Statute’s universality, especially in the Pacific region.
Parliamentarians around the world are alarmed about the accelerating rate of withdrawals from the Rome Statute in 2026, with the formal withdrawal of Naoero increasing the threat to the Statute's universality, especially in the Pacific region. Naoero was among the first Pacific Island states to ratify the Rome Statute on 12 November 2001, becoming the 45th State Party worldwide. On 22 September 2026, His Excellency David Ranibok Adeang, President of Naoero, announced at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly that he would deposit an instrument of withdrawal from the Rome Statute, citing the International Criminal Court's "increasing irrelevance" to his country. The UN Secretary-General confirmed the receipt of the notification on 23 September 2026. While President Adeang did not elaborate on the reason for Naoero's withdrawal, his announcement came hours after the United States, addressing the UN General Assembly earlier that day, urged all States Parties to withdraw. The call forms part of a broader US campaign launched in July to "dismantle" the Court. On 28 September 2026, the United States publicly congratulated Naoero on its decision. Risks to Universality of the Rome Statute Naoero is the sixth state this year to deposit its instrument of withdrawal, marking a concerning trend that undermines the universality of the Rome Statute system and the credibility and integrity of the ICC. Recent withdrawals by Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali in June 2026, and Venezuela and Chad in July 2026, will take effect one year after their respective deposit dates. Once effective, these withdrawals could narrow the ICC's jurisdiction over future crimes and decrease the number of states obligated to cooperate with the Court. Such gaps in the Court's reach will make it increasingly challenging to pursue accountability, deter perpetrators, and deliver justice for victims. Sustained engagement by States Parties and wider membership in the Rome Statute system is essential to advancing universality and strengthening international justice. The Pacific's Role in International Justice and the Environment Naoero's withdrawal risks weakening the Pacific region's collective voice on international justice and the protection of human rights for its people and future generations. By leaving the ICC, Naoero will limit its participation in the Assembly of States Parties' deliberations on key issues affecting the Pacific, including climate justice, environmental protection, and the criminalization of ecocide. Notably, neighboring island states, Vanuatu, Fiji, and Samoa, have led a proposal to amend the Rome Statute to recognize ecocide as an international crime. Given Naoero's vulnerability to sea-level rise, water insecurity, and climate-related risks, continued engagement with the Rome Statute system could strengthen the role of Pacific Island states in discussions on global environmental accountability. Until its withdrawal takes effect on 23 September 2027, Naoero remains bound by all its obligations under the Rome Statute. Once the withdrawal enters into force, however, Naoero will forfeit its opportunity to shape the Pacific region's efforts on the proposed ecocide amendment, to engage with other States Parties on issues of shared concern, and to contribute to the protection of victims and survivors of the most serious international crimes, including genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. Support for the International Criminal Court Naoero's withdrawal is a setback for the Rome Statute system, but it stands in contrast to the statements of several States Parties who used the UN General Assembly to affirm the International Criminal Court's essential role in accountability and the rule of law. This includes His Excellency António Costa, President of the European Council, who said: "Upholding international law is not optional. It is our responsibility. That means safeguarding the institutions that give full meaning to these principles. Especially the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. We stand firmly behind them and will uphold their independence, their integrity and their ability to fully exercise their mandate." Countries such as Fiji, Vanuatu, and Samoa likewise reaffirmed the importance of international law and multilateral cooperation for small island states, including in addressing common challenges such as climate change, ocean protection, and sustainable development. Action Needed to Strengthen Universality The effectiveness of the Rome Statute system, and the International Criminal Court itself, depends on broad participation of States Parties, full implementation of the Rome Statute, and cooperation with the Court. Parliamentarians for Global Action continues to champion universality by urging: Members of the Parliament of Naoero to clarify whether Parliament was informed of or consulted on the decision to withdraw from the Rome Statute, and to initiate a national dialogue to reassess the decision and reaffirm Naoero's commitment to international justice. States Parties to the Rome Statute, especially those in the Pacific region, to engage with Naoero about the importance of universality and encourage the reversal of its withdrawal before it takes effect. Parliamentarians worldwide to demonstrate unwavering support for the International Criminal Court, and leverage bilateral, regional and multilateral channels to advance universality of the Rome Statute and adopt protective measures to shield international accountability mechanisms. ]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/naoero-icc-withdrawal.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/naoero-icc-withdrawal.html Wed, 07 Oct 2026 14:12:00 +0000 Under the theme “Stories for Life,” this event offered an opportunity for legislators to directly hear from practitioners and experts, to reflect together promoting human rights for current and future generations.
On 7 October, just three days before the World Day Against the Death Penalty, parliamentarians from across the Americas gathered for a virtual roundtable on the abolition of the death penalty, co-organized by Parliamentarians for Global Action, Stand Up For Jamaica, the Puerto Rico Bar Association (Colegio de Abogados y Abogadas de Puerto Rico), The Advocates for Human Rights, and the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty. To highlight the theme “Stories for Life,” this event offered an opportunity for thirteen legislators from Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Suriname and the USA, to hear directly from practitioners and experts, and reflect together about strategies at national and international levels to engage with their governments and constituents, with a view to advancing national reform efforts and promoting human rights for current and future generations. “Behind every statistic is a human story” In her welcoming remarks, Hon. Heatha Miller, MP (Jamaica), PGA Member, highlighted the importance of legislators’ engagement as representatives whose voices are capable of shaping public discourse. They, therefore, bear a special responsibility, including in keeping the issue of abolition on the legislative agenda. This World Day Against the Death Penalty reminds us that “behind every statistic is a human story,” expressing the hope that these testimonies can be placed at the center of the conversation to advance justice, dignity and protection of human life. Participants heard from Ms. Talibah Byron-Chiverton, Attorney-at-Law and Notary Public at Byron & Byron, in Saint Kitts and Nevis, who shared her experience representing Mr. Evanson Mitcham, the last person held on death row in the country, where he spent sixteen years. She recalled her decision to take the case and the cruel treatment Mr. Evanson Mitcham experienced. “Everyone has the fundamental right to protection. If we do not believe in that, we do not believe in the rule of law,” she said. Terrible crimes can touch any community and will remain with it, but a terrible crime does not give the State the right to kill. The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council found that Mr. Mitcham’s rights had been violated in 2018, and overturned his death sentence. Thanks to her unwavering commitment, Mr. Evanson Mitcham was released in 2025. Her powerful testimony resonated strongly with parliamentarians. Hon. Janelle Chanona, MP (Belize), a member of PGA Executive Committee, drew parallels to her own country’s context, reflecting about the unique dynamics of smaller countries and the realities behind retributive and revenge-driven forms of justice. She underlined the need to work towards alternatives. Hon. Valerie Woods, Speaker of the Parliament of Belize and PGA Member, noted the de facto moratorium in Belize, which is in place since the last execution in 1985. She argued it is now timely to have a robust debate about amending the law, so that it reflects the practice. Hon. Sheena Pitts, MP (Belize), PGA Member, added that legislators bear a greater responsibility to ensure they do not discriminate in their approach to justice. Parliamentarians also raised the case of Christa Pike in Tennessee, which has drawn international attention and underscored the cruelty of the death penalty. For Rep. Jack Patrick Lewis (USA), the fact that the case of Christa Pike made international news is both a source of sadness and a sense of empowerment: he noted that the cruelty she suffered received global media coverage and is now part of the conversation. He thus emphasized the importance of taking action at both the local and international levels. Finally, Hon. Isaat Buchanan, MP (Jamaica), observed that Jamaica’s moratorium is also the result of international pressure aimed at upholding human rights. He stressed the need for further awareness raising and public education about the death penalty. He noted the issue of extrajudicial and unlawful killings by the police, the high rate of which is a matter of serious concern in the country. Reflecting on avenues to abolish the death penalty Suriname offered a compelling counter-example for the minority of States in the Americas that still retain the death penalty, often as a legacy of the colonial era. Hon. Ingrid Karta-Bink, MP (Suriname), shared the experience of her country, which removed the death penalty from the Penal Code in 2015 and from the Military Penal Code in 2021. She reported that on 23 July, the National Assembly took another significant step when all members present voted in favor of approving Suriname’s accession to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights: “this unanimous vote carried an important message: on an issue concerning the fundamental value of human life, political differences need not prevent national consensus.” She further informed participants that Suriname’s authorities are planning to deposit the instrument of ratification soon. In discussions about national avenues to abolish the death penalty and examples from other countries, it is equally important to understand what evidence says about public opinion, which is often used as a justification for retaining the death penalty. Ms. Connie Parker-Dhinakaran, Project Manager for The Death Penalty Project, presented findings from the study “Sentenced to death without execution: Why capital punishment has not yet been abolished in the Eastern Caribbean and Barbados.” The research revealed that, among respondents, only a minority (30%) felt strongly about retaining the death penalty and that retributive reasons mattered most to those who favored retention. Crucially, the results of the study found that if abolition is pursued, there will be no public backlash. The study highlights the need to dedicate spaces for constituents to have debates that are grounded in reality and data, based on real stories, and that include voices of persons with direct experience. There is the need for more education on the death penalty as a human rights issue, community conversations and reconciliation. “The issue requires government leadership,” she said, emphasizing that the results of the study show that abolition gains traction, even in places where status quo is maintained. International levers for parliamentarians Participants discussed avenues for parliamentarians to engage at the international level. This is notably the case of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), a mechanism that can contribute to advancing abolition of the death penalty. Ms. Michelle Brathwaite, Regional Representative, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), CARICOM Regional Office, reminded participants that the OHCHR opposes the death penalty in all circumstances. She stressed the need to address gaps between the law and former practice, and called for more nuanced public conversation that move beyond binary exchanges. Underlining the important role played by parliamentarians, she emphasized the necessity, for our societies to be safer, to address the effectiveness of criminal justice systems and public confidence in them. Such conversations can take place within the framework of the UPR, even when States are not yet ready to act and do not support recommendations made by their peers; indeed, this instrument can be treated to maintain an international benchmark and keep the issue of the death penalty on the national and international agendas. Mr. João Maya Cunha, Human Rights Officer, Office of the UN OHCHR, Caricom Office, reminded participants that the UPR mechanism has a concrete impact on the lives of the people and explained that parliamentarians can support it by: Reviewing and amending laws to align them with accepted UPR recommendations; Allocating resources for human rights priorities; Questioning relevant ministries, requesting reports and monitoring implementation; Engaging with National Human Rights Institutions, civil society, and affected communities. Another important opportunity for global commitment, is the biennial United Nations General Assembly Resolution calling for a moratorium on the use of the death penalty. Ms. Chiara Sangiorgio, Death Penalty Advisor at Amnesty International, explained that this resolution carries political weight and draws a clear link between the promotion of human rights and the suspension of executions. With the Committee-level vote scheduled for November, and the final vote for December 2026, she encouraged parliamentarians to engage in the process and urge their countries to instruct Ambassadors in New York. She recommended parliamentarians support the process, in meeting with Cabinet members, participating in roundtables considering the resolution, presenting parliamentary resolutions, asking parliamentary questions, and pushing the conversation in regional fora, such as CARICOM. Recommendations for action Before presenting the recommendations concluding the event, Mr. Kevin Miguel Rivera, Second Vice-President and Chair of the Death Penalty Committee, Colegio de Abogados y Abogadas de Puerto Rico, noted that while Puerto Rico banned the death penalty in its Constitution in 1952, it remains a US territory where federal capital punishment can be applied, and new cases have emerged under the current administration. In view of the urgency to do more for abolition of the death penalty, including in restating the fact that the death penalty is a human rights issue, Mr. Kevin Miguel Rivera called parliamentarians to: Listen to the people directly impacted by the death penalty. Their stories provide an understanding of the suffering endured by directly impacted persons, which amount to torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. Their accounts shed light on the structural, social, and individual conditions that lead a person into a conflict with the law – conditions that must be addressed. Promote dialogue about justice and human rights with citizens, victims’ associations, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders. In parliamentary debates and public discourse, highlight the risks of wrongful convictions, the proven lack of deterrence, and the discriminatory nature of capital punishment. Advocate for the need to dedicate resources to crime prevention that address root causes of violence. Collaborate with like-minded parliamentarians across party lines to identify legislative strategies for abolition and support or initiate legislative efforts that lead to abolition.  Collaborate with parliamentarians from other countries, to learn from their experience in strengthening abolitionist efforts. Urge your government to support and vote in favor of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly Resolution for a Moratorium on the Use of the Death Penalty, scheduled to be adopted in December 2026, to signal a firm commitment to international human rights standards. PGA stands ready to support you. Engage in the Universal Periodic Review of your country and monitor the implementation of accepted recommendations or commitments taken by your government in relation to the abolition of the death penalty.  Work hand-in-hand with civil society, including victims’ groups, to build a path towards abolition. Hon. Heatha Miller, MP (Jamaica), closed the session by restating the need to move from a narrative based on fear and punishment to one grounded in accountability and dignity. “The experience shared today demonstrated that progress is possible when MPs are prepared to lead,” calling on participants to bring the conversation to their constituents, and ensuring that stories of persons directly affected by the death penalty are heard.]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/stories-for-life-americas.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/stories-for-life-americas.html Wed, 07 Oct 2026 13:53:00 +0000 Historic progress for the abolition of the death penalty
Historic progress for the abolition of the death penalty Lebanon became the second State in the Southwest Asia and North Africa region to abolish the death penalty. Hon. Georges Okais, MP (Lebanon), was among the parliamentarians that championed the bill: “With this vote, we have demonstrated the Lebanese people’s commitment to human rights and restorative justice.” Parliamentarians for Global Action celebrated this milestone, hoping it will inspire legislators across the region and worldwide. As the legislation was subsequently promulgated by the President in August, PGA called on Lebanese parliamentarians to: Urge authorities to ensure that all death sentences are commuted; Call on their government to ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; Ensure the government votes in favor of the upcoming UN General Assembly resolution for a moratorium on the death penalty in December 2026. Suriname’s National Assembly unanimously approved the bill ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civic and Political Rights (ICCPR), aimed at the abolition of the death penalty, reinforcing the country’s commitment to abolition and preventing any future reversal. By taking this step, Suriname joins 92 other States Parties, and, most recently, the Parliament of Sierra Leone, which adopted a similar bill in June. PGA now calls on the respective governments of these countries to deposit their instruments of ratification, formally becoming parties to the Second Optional Protocol. A look back at the World Congress Against the Death Penalty The World Congress Against the Death Penalty, organized by Ensemble contre la peine de mort (ECPM) met in Paris, France, from 30 June to 2 July. The conference gathered over 1,300 participants from 100 countries, including parliamentarians and PGA members: Hon. Millie Odhiambo, MP (Kenya), Hon. Christelle Vuanga, MP (Democratic Republic of the Congo), and Ms. Marietta Karamanli, MP (France). The high-level participation facilitated key commitments, notably Morocco’s pledge to host the next Congress, and announcements from Central African Republic, Chad and Cambodia of their intent to ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the ICCPR, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. The discussion also fostered reflections on current urgent issues, including the resurgence of executions, the use of capital punishment for drug-related offences, discrimination, justice, the socio-economic impact, the role of the judiciary, and the importance of personal testimonies – which aligns with the upcoming theme for the World Day Against the Death Penalty (10 October), “Stories for Life.” Remaining attentive to setbacks Despite these milestones, significant issues remain. The execution spree continues in Iran, a pattern instilling fear and suppressing dissent. Singapore has also seen a significant rise in executions for drug-related offences, already surpassing the total for all of 2025. Amnesty International, the Anti-Death Penalty Asia Network (ADPAN), Capital Punishment Justice Project (CPJP) and Harm Reduction International (HRI) stated that these executions represent continued violations of safeguards and restrictions on the use of the death penalty set out under international human right law and standards which render these executions unlawful. In the United States, there is an increasing number of executions and individuals on death row. In response, Amnesty International and 45 other organizations, including PGA, wrote an open letter to the Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, asking for his immediate action to end the threat of execution for more than 550 people currently on death row in California (the US state with the highest number of people under sentence of death). On 9 September, the Algerian Government announced a review of a preliminary draft amendment to the Penal Code intended to enforce the death penalty for certain categories of crimes (the country has observed a de facto moratorium since 1993). This draft amendment concerns the perpetrators and instigators of arson, as well as those who kidnap minors and those who inflict abuse upon them. The severity of these offenses does not negate the right to life, the right to a fair trial, or Algeria’s obligations under international law. Upcoming activities and events: The World Day Against the Death Penalty, observed every 10 October, unifies the global abolitionist movement and mobilizes civil society, political leaders, lawyers, and public opinion to support the call for the universal abolition of capital punishment. This year, the World Day will focus on calling for a person-first approach, re-centering the human in abolitionist advocacy, with the theme “Stories for life.” PGA encourages parliamentarians worldwide to mark this very important date and join initiatives launched by civil society organizations in their countries. PGA will contribute through the following events: 7 October: Stories for Life: Parliamentary Voices for Abolition in the Americas Virtual roundtable for parliamentarians in the Americas on the abolition of the death penalty 10 October: World Day against the Death Penalty Courtesy World Coalition Against the Death Penalty July to September 2026 at a Glance Positive developments: Indonesia: o   In July, civil society organizations celebrated a decade without executions in the country, which implies that Indonesia became a de facto abolitionist in practice country. In a statement, 17 NGOs led by ADPAN called on Indonesia authorities to formally abolish the death penalty. Kazakhstan: o   Kazakhstan’s new Constitution, which explicitly prohibits the death penalty, entered into force on 1 July. This follows the country’s abolition of the death penalty in June 2022 and ratification, in 2021, of the Second Optional Protocol to the ICCPR, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. Lebanon: o   On 11 August, the Lebanese National Assembly adopted the law abolishing the death penalty. The law was subsequently promulgated by the President on 17 August. Philippines: o   The President granted a pardon to Mary Jane Veloso, who had been imprisoned since 2015 after receiving a last-minute reprieve from execution by firing squad in Indonesia for drug-related charges.   Saudi Arabia: o   Authorities granted pardon to nearly 2,000 Ethiopian nationals held on death row, often for drug-related charges. While Ethiopia has begun facilitating the repatriation of its citizens, hundreds of Ethiopian nationals remain on death row in Saudi Arabia. Suriname: o   On 23 July, the National Assembly unanimously approved the bill ratifying Suriname’s accession to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. United Kingdom o   Seventy years after her execution, Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be executed in the United Kingdom, was granted conditional pardon by the King. This act recognizes the historic injustice of the death penalty in this case, including evidence of domestic abuse and coercive and controlling behavior. The application for a pardon was brought by four of her grandchildren. United States: o   Louisiana Supreme Court’s overturned a death sentence, ruling that the evidence undermined the scientific foundation of the prosecution’s case. The man was released after 27 years on death row. o   Utah prosecutors dropped death penalty charges against a man who spent decades on death row, following DNA tests. Viet Nam: o   The government presented its explanation before the National Assembly to reduce the scope of the death penalty for six offences, as part of proposed amendments to the Penal Code. The Committee on Legal and Judicial Affairs expressed support for narrowing the scope of capital punishment. The amendments are supposed to be tabled for a final vote in October. Setbacks: Algeria: o   The Minister of Justice presented proposed amendments to the Penal Code, which aims at expending the scope of the death penalty, following the President’s calls for harsher penalties after the deadly wildfires of August. The bill to amend the Penal Code contains several provisions expanding the scope of the death penalty, particularly regarding kidnapping, torture, sexual assault or the mutilation of children, as well as certain arson offenses. Algeria observes a moratorium on the death penalty for 33 years. Civil society organizations expressed concerns and launched a petition as an international appeal to maintain the moratorium on executions in Algeria.   Bangladesh: o   On 6 September, Parliament passed a bill imposing the death penalty for enforced disappearance. Civil society organizations called the President to return the bill to parliament for reconsideration, including removal of the death penalty, establishment for an independent investigative mechanism and stronger safeguards for victims, their families and people reporting suspected disappearances in good faith.   India o   A district judge issued 23 death sentences over four months, drawing the public attention to the larger issue of capital punishment in India. While permitted only in the “rarest of rare” instances, the death penalty is awarded on the discretionary views of the judge. Iran: o   In Ghezelhesar Prison, prisoners protested for sixteen days to call on judicial authorities and members of parliament to conduct a comprehensive review of the death penalty, particularly in drug-related cases. Authorities promised to temporarily suspend drug-related executions. Hundreds of people sentenced to death for drug offences remain at imminent risk in other prisons across Iran. o   12 individuals were sentenced to the death penalty for their involvement in the January 2026 protests and two of them were executed on 19 July. UN experts condemned the development and called for an immediate halt to executions. In 2026, at least 29 individuals have already been executed in connection with the January protests, while over 100 individuals have been identified to be on death row according to Iran Human Rights NGO. o   Executions continue to rise in Iran, in a pattern instilling fear and suppressing dissent. Since the beginning of the year, at least 575 executions have been recorded by the NGO Iran Human Rights. Israel: o   A Palestinian man accused of killing an Israeli settler in the West Bank could become the first person sentenced to death under the Israel new death penalty law, which was condemned as discriminatory and effectively designed to target Palestinians by human rights experts, including the UN. Japan: o   The country executed a man sentenced to the death penalty, previously found guilty of murder, attempted murder and arson in 2011. The jury rejected the defense’s argument that he was mentally ill at the time of the crime. His appeals were rejected in 2016 by a Supreme Court ruling upholding the death sentence. This is the first execution in Japan for 2026.  Libya: o   The de facto authorities in eastern Libya, the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, have resumed executions for the first time since 2010. Since 23 August, at least 30 individuals were arbitrarily executed following unfair trials and alleged torture-tainted and secretive trials. Amnesty International reports that at least 50 men are at imminent risk of execution by the Libyan Arab Armed Forces. Nepal: o   Some parliamentarians renewed calls to reinstate the death penalty. Nepal abolished capital punishment in 1997, which is enshrined in its Constitution, and became a party to the Second Optional Protocol to the ICCPR in 1998. Any reversal would therefore violate Nepal’s international obligations. Civil society organizations, including ADPAN, called for the government to continue honoring its commitments by upholding its absolute prohibition of capital punishment.  Singapore: o   Singapore executed two individuals, a Singaporean and a Malaysian citizen, who were convicted for drug related offences. Since January 2026, the country has executed 18 people for such charges, surpassing the total for 2025 (17), according to CPJP. UN experts called for an immediate halt to the country’s continued and unlawful use of capital punishment. o   Amnesty International, CIVICUS and Human Rights Watch called on the Singapore government to drop charges against seven human rights defenders who face conviction for protests, vigils and other forms of public advocacy concerning the ongoing conflict in Gaza and opposition to the death penalty. Syria: o   A Syrian Court sentenced Bashar al-Assad alongside other former officials to death in abstentia for crimes against humanity and war crimes, committed during the 14-year civil war that culminated in the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. While these trials are crucial for accountability and transitional justice processes, highest standards in international criminal law limit applicable penalties to imprisonment. United States o   On 1st July, a new law applying the death penalty for child sexual abuse, entered into force in Mississippi. This legislation defies the previous U.S. Supreme Court ruling that the death penalty for non-homicide crimes violate the 8th Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. o   Filings from ongoing litigation over Tennessee’s lethal injection protocol adopted a year and a half ago show concerns about the executioners’ training and qualifications. o   Texas Appeal Court rejected a trial judge’s recommendation that Melissa Lucio, a victim of sexual abuse and domestic violence convicted for the accidental death of her daughter, is actually innocent despite forensic and eyewitness evidence. o   Christa Pike, a child rape victim, faces execution in Tennessee for a crime she committed when she was eighteen years old. In 2026, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights concluded that the United States was responsible for the violation of her rights to life, liberty and personal security, the right to equality before the law, the preservation of health and well-being, fair trial, protection from arbitrary arrest and due process. It reiterated that Christa Pike should be provided with effective reparation, including a review of her sentence, in accordance with the guarantees of the right to justice and the right to due process, as well as pecuniary compensation. The Commission also recommended that her sentence be commuted. Christa Pike spent 27 years in solitary confinement. o   From July-September 2026, a total of 12 executions were recorded, included: §  6 in Florida §  2 in Texas §  2 in Alabama §  1 in Oklahoma §  1 in Tennessee New reports and resources: World Coalition Against the Death Penalty o   Ahead of the World Day Against the Death Penalty (10 October), the WCADP published a series of new tools to support the new theme of this World Day’s cycle, dedicated to humanizing the people affected by the death penalty, focusing on the stories of the human beings affected by the capital punishment whose voices are too often neglected or silenced. The leaflet, mobilization toolkit, and testimonies are available on the World Day webpage. ]]> https://www.pgaction.org/ilhr/adp/quarterly-updates/2026-q3.html https://www.pgaction.org/ilhr/adp/quarterly-updates/2026-q3.html Mon, 28 Sep 2026 15:25:00 +0000 7 December 2026
Event: Stories for Life: Parliamentary Voices for Abolition in the Americas Virtual roundtable for parliamentarians in the Americas on the abolition of the death penalty When: 7 October Description: While a majority of States in the Americas have abolished capital punishment, a minority retains the death penalty, often as a legacy of the colonial era. The abolition process has stalled for years, and this crucial human rights issue faces complex and varied realities from one country to another. The theme of the 2026 World Day Against the Death Penalty (10 October), “Stories for Life,” offers an opportunity for parliamentarians to get involved and shift the narrative toward justice. By gathering parliamentarians from countries facing different realities, this roundtable will foster a shared understanding of challenges, and equip participants with concrete strategies at national and international levels to engage with their governments and their constituents, with a view to advancing national reform efforts and promoting human rights for current and future generations. Who can Attend: Parliamentarians from the Americas are invited to attend this event, which will take place online. For more information, please contact the International Law and Human Rights Program.]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/activity-calendars/events/stories-for-life-parliamentary-voices.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/activity-calendars/events/stories-for-life-parliamentary-voices.html Wed, 23 Sep 2026 15:50:00 +0000 3 December 2026
Event: PGA International Council Meeting | Thematic Session on AI Safeguards When: 3 December Register Here >> Description:  Our network is guided by an International Council composed of the chairs of PGA national groups — cross-party caucuses of parliamentarians that enable legislators to work collectively on domestic legislation and policies while staying integrated into PGA’s global advocacy work. The International Council meets once every year to report on the progress of PGA’s campaigns and to discuss and strategize around challenges. This year's International Council meeting will have a dedicated thematic session on the crucial role that parliamentarians can play in promoting responsible AI governance, in particular looking at the need to establish much needed AI safeguards. Who can Attend: Chairs of PGA National Groups, PGA Members worldwide, invited guests For more information: https://www.pgaction.org/news/international-council-meeting-2026-december.html To get involved contact: ]]> https://www.pgaction.org/news/activity-calendars/events/pga-international-council-meeting-2026.html https://www.pgaction.org/news/activity-calendars/events/pga-international-council-meeting-2026.html Thu, 17 Sep 2026 13:04:00 +0000