SIDS meet on the margins of the 152nd IPU Assemby

Representatives of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), namely Suriname, Seychelles and Fiji, met on the margins of the 152nd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Istanbul, Turkey to exchange views on common priorities, enhance co-operation within the IPU framework, and ensure consistency and alignment in our national statements and committee works.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for the Speaker of the Australian Federal Parliament Parliament House Canberra and Chair of the IPU Finance Committee the Hon. Milton Dick, to brief the delegates on the financial status of the IPU, covering issues related to membership contributions, voluntary funding, and arrears.

He drew attention to the financial constraints faced by smaller and developing countries, particularly the burden of travel and accommodation costs. Hon. Dick further underscored the importance of exploring more affordable airfare options and highlighted ongoing discussions regarding the potential hosting of a future IPU Assembly in the Asia Pacific region.

Member of Parliament of the Suriname National Assembly, Hon. Rabindre Parmessar, proposed raising the current cap on voluntary contributions from 25% to 30%, in addition to earmarking 2% of contributions to specifically address challenges confronting SIDS.

Hon. Dick acknowledged the proposal and noted that it merited further consideration, including the possible establishment of a dedicated climate related initiative or fund for SIDS.

The proposal was supported by the Speaker of the Fijian Parliament the Hon. Filimone Jitoko, who suggested that it be formalised as a resolution and advanced through the appropriate IPU mechanisms.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the election of a new Chairperson was held, as Fiji has chaired the SIDS group since October 2023. The Speaker of the The National Assembly of Seychelles the Hon. Azarel Ernesta was elected as the new Chairperson, whilst the Deputy Chairperson would be elected at the next SIDS meeting at the 153rd IPU Assembly.

The meeting reaffirmed the collective commitment of SIDS to strengthened collaboration within the IPU and to advancing fair and equitable financial arrangements that acknowledge their distinct vulnerabilities and development challenges.