Geneva, Switzerland– Rt. Hon. Dr. Kalinda François-Xavier, President of the Senate, led Rwanda’s delegation to the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament, held from 29th to 31st July 2025 in Geneva. The event was organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

This important forum brought together parliamentary leaders from across the globe to promote multilateralism, inclusive governance, peace and security, sustainable development, and digital innovation in parliamentary work.

While addressing the conference under the theme “A world in turmoil: Parliamentary cooperation and multilateralism for peace, justice and prosperity for all,” Rt. Hon. Dr. Kalinda reaffirmed Rwanda’s strong commitment to global parliamentary cooperation.

“In today’s world, which is facing many conflicts, crises, and growing inequalities, the Parliament of Rwanda reaffirms its commitment to parliamentary cooperation. Multilateralism is a key foundation for peace, justice, and inclusive development,” he said.

Rwanda Highlights Women’s Leadership in Climate Action

Ahead of the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament, Deputy Speaker Beline Uwineza addressed the 15th Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament, during the session titled “The Women, Peace and Security Agenda 25 Years On: Persisting Challenges and the Way Forward.”

She highlighted Rwanda’s gender-responsive climate policies and stressed that climate change disproportionately affects women and girls, calling for more inclusive decision-making and targeted climate financing.

“While climate change impacts everyone, it does not affect all people equally — women and girls bear a heavier burden, deepening existing inequalities,” she said.
“As leaders, we must reject the myth of gender-neutral climate change and actively promote women’s meaningful participation in climate decision-making at all levels. Equally, we must ensure that adaptation financing reaches women-led and women-focused climate initiatives.”

On the sidelines of the conference, Dr. Kalinda held bilateral meetings with several parliamentary leaders, including:

• Andrea Caroni, Speaker of the Council of States of Switzerland

• Olena Kondratiuk, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Ukraine

• Amir Ohana, Speaker of the Knesset of Israel

• Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the IPU

These discussions focused on strengthening parliamentary diplomacy, enhancing bilateral cooperation, and fostering mutual understanding among parliaments.

Rwanda’s participation in this global conference reinforces its commitment to promoting world peace, inclusive development, and international collaboration through strong and effective parliamentary partnerships.