Mobilizing parliamentary leadership for health, equity and rights: PMNCH at the 151st IPU Assembly

At the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Geneva, PMNCH joined parliamentary leaders from around the world to reaffirm the central role of national parliaments in driving change for women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health. By championing legislative action, ensuring transparent use of public resources, and elevating the voices of marginalized communities, parliaments stand at the forefront of advancing global health equity.  

In an increasingly volatile world where trust in institutions is strained and humanitarian aid is under pressure, PMNCH highlighted the decisive role parliaments play in turning pledges into law, holding governments accountable and securing resources to protect the most vulnerable. Across bilateral meetings and high-level discussions, PMNCH emphasized how conflict and fragility continue to deepen inequalities and jeopardize access to essential health services. The exchanges with national delegations, particularly from Collaborative Advocacy Action Plan (CAAP) initiative countries, provided valuable insight into how to tailor support for maximum impact. By listening directly to policymakers, PMNCH enhanced its ability to deliver targeted technical assistance and fuel evidence-based advocacy for resilient and equitable health systems. 

Launching the Parliamentary Network of Champions for WCAH 

A defining moment for PMNCH was the launch of the Parliamentary Network of Champions for Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health, led by Hon. Thokozile Didiza, Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa, and supported by IPU and PMNCH. This groundbreaking initiative unites global legislative leaders to drive action toward rights-based health laws, sustainable financing and stronger accountability frameworks, ensuring that health policies translate into real-world change. 

“Through courage, collaboration, and accountability, we can transform health outcomes and create a legacy of equity and opportunity for generations to come.” Hon. El Malick Ndiaye, President of the National Assembly of Senegal, said, underscoring the moral and societal imperative of investing in women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health. “The Liberian National Assembly is committed to advancing the health and well-being of women, children and adolescents (WCA) and we support H.E. President’s vision to invest in the health and well-being of WCA as an important pillar of the National Population Development Plan (2025-29). We are supportive of the efforts of the Speaker of South Africa to bring together a network of parliaments to advance these critical issues.” stated Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, the Speaker of Parliament of Liberia, in support of the Parliamentary Network of Champions. 

Parliamentary Leadership in Humanitarian Contexts 

PMNCH Executive Director, Rajat Khosla, addressing the General Debate, underscored the urgent need for parliamentary leadership to uphold humanitarian norms and safeguard health amid multiple crises. “The well-being of women, children and adolescents must remain the heartbeat of every credible humanitarian response,” he said, calling for laws, policies and budgets that protect the most vulnerable even in times of instability. By prioritizing equity-driven legislation, parliaments can ensure that no community is left behind, even during conflict or crisis. 

Evidence-Based and Youth-Driven Advocacy 

PMNCH also contributed to the work of the newly established IPU Committee on Health, highlighting the importance of evidence-informed decision-making and the voices of young people. By promoting youth-led research and directly incorporating young people’s priorities into legislative discussions, PMNCH reinforced the need for progressive reforms that reflect the realities of this generation. One of the highlights was the recognition of adolescent health among the priorities of the Committee, for which PMNCH has advocated. 

Embedding Equity and Justice in Climate and Health Legislation 

At the Standing Committee on Sustainable Development, PMNCH took the floor to reinforce that climate justice is social justice. As climate impacts disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, especially women and children, parliamentary leadership is vital to embed equity and rights in climate and health legislation. PMNCH urged parliaments to reform discriminatory laws, allocate resources equitably, including through co-financing mechanisms between climate and health sectors, and meaningfully engage affected communities in policy making.  

Global Voice and Commitment to Catalyze Action 

At this critical juncture, bold global leadership and commitment are essential to inspire and catalyze parliamentary action at the national level. Unified global advocacy plays a key role in sustaining political momentum, rallying financial and technical resources, and supporting accountability mechanisms that drive real results on the ground.   

Global advocacy can inspire and encourage parliaments to translate global commitments into country-level reforms and policies. Amplifying shared goals and demonstrating political will at the highest levels can help reinforce the legitimacy and urgency of parliamentary action, ensuring that health equity and rights remain central to national agendas.  

Reaffirming Partnerships and Commitment 

In this context, PMNCH reaffirmed its longstanding partnership with the IPU and their shared commitment to translating political will into concrete action that safeguards the health, rights and opportunities of every woman, every child and every adolescent, especially in the most challenging times.