Karachi (04 February 2026): Paul Yao Boateng, Member of the UK House of Lords, stated that trust is the foundation of democracy and that parliaments are the core institutions of public representation, democratic legitimacy, and development. He said the conference reflected the importance of parliaments and their accountability to the people.

Highlighting global challenges such as climate change, geopolitical tensions, trade wars, budgetary constraints, and declining public trust, he said these pressures have made the role of parliaments more vital than ever. He noted that smaller and vulnerable countries suffer most from conflicts among major powers, stressing the need for resilience and the positive role of the Commonwealth.

He urged parliaments to move beyond rhetoric and focus on results, particularly in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, including health, education, clean water and sanitation, reducing inequalities, sustainable cities, climate action, and the protection of land and marine life.

He emphasized strengthening parliamentary committees, transparent oversight, and government accountability, and highlighted the use of artificial intelligence and blockchain to combat corruption, enhance transparency, improve public finances, and build trust in public services.

He also stressed engaging youth through technology to bridge the digital divide and described clean water and sanitation (SDG 6) as crucial for women’s empowerment, girls’ education, and gender equality.

Concluding, he said addressing public issues strengthens democracy and electoral success, and called for unity, action, and stronger Commonwealth cooperation, citing Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on the power of unity.