Socialist International asserts commitment to democratic change

Accra, June 17, GNA - The Socialist International on Saturday reiterated its firm support and solidarity with all forces working peacefully for democratic change across Africa.

In a communiqu=E9 issued at the end of a three-day international Africa region meeting in Accra, the group urged political parties, especially socialist ideologically minded trade unions, workers, women civil society organisations to continue to struggle for the election of humane governments.

Flanked by Professor John Evans Atta Mills, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Flagbearer for Elections 2008 and other leading members of the party, Mr Luis Ayala, SI Secretary General lauded the changing role of Africa in global politics and economics.

The Accra meeting, under the auspices of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was to climax the party's 15th anniversary celebration. Participants were from over 40 socialist political parties worldwide.

Political leaders, experts, academics, parliamentarians, representatives from social organisations, think-tanks and foundations participated in the discussions.

Addressing the media on the outcome of the meeting, Mr. Ayala, said delegates underlined issues of concern, among them peace and security, in relation to conflicts affecting the global agenda. Mr. Ayala explained that thorough and fruitful debates followed an introduction on each of the themes: "Democratic governance, constitutional frameworks, electoral processes and political parties;" "Migration- the human, economic, social and political impact in Africa," and "Pro-active policies for the resolution of conflicts." Mr. Ayala said Socialist International identified a deficit with respect to constitutions at a continental level, an inadequate "constitutional culture" and sometimes constitutions that are too ambiguous.

The fight for effective democratic governance in Africa must be continued, which necessarily means affirming the democratic rule of law, reaffirming institutions, economic development, citizens' participation and dialogue between political forces and those in civil society.

Mr. Ayala said members pledged to continue the fight to affirm the independence of judiciary power and the credibility of magistrates, by reinforcing the independence of the judiciary arm of the State. They also aimed at "guaranteeing the independence of electoral administration bodies, such as Electoral Commissions and reinforcing international cooperation for these institutions.

"Strengthening the juridical framework and accountability of holders of public office in carrying out their duties, and a greater protection of the democratic rule of law."

With regard to - Migration: the human, economic, social and political impact in Africa SI attributed it to the impact of globalisation of the economy and the lack of opportunities for too great a number of people, which, according to SI, have accelerated migratory flows towards the industrial, economic and financial centres across the world.

Mr Ayala said members of the Socialist International remain committed to improving the regulations affecting migrants and also to making them more humane, whilst ensuring an ordered and regulated flow by policies with responsibility shared between the originating and destination countries.

This translates as responsible action in migratory matters in the originating countries, as well as the destination countries putting into practice active policies of integration, such as assistance, and the strengthening of efforts of developing countries to generate jobs and opportunities for their own citizens.

The member parties of the Socialist International in Africa will continue to contribute actively in their own regions and on a global level to the development of a social democratic roadmap with regard to migration, a key issue for society in the 21st century and a fundamental issue to safeguard human, social and political rights of all, including those of migrants.

Committee members heard contributions on the advances and challenges for strengthening democracy in Africa, a crucial precondition for economic progress.

The recent positive developments in Cote d'Ivoire, Sierra Leone and the democratic deficit as experienced today in Nigeria and in other countries were addressed.

The underlying convergence in the discussions was the need to do what the social democratic movement has done in other parts of the world at national level.

Socialist International therefore called for a consensus to ensure that the interests of those who are left out are looked after and protected, with a concern for poverty, an emphasis on employment, health, education, gender equality, defence of the environment and greater equality in international economic relations. 17 June 07