Hosting the CPC is both a privilege and a testament to South Africa’s steadfast commitment to constitutional democracy, multilateral cooperation and parliamentary diplomacy. As one of the world’s foremost gatherings of parliamentarians, the CPC provides a unique platform for legislators to exchange ideas, strengthen democratic institutions and collectively address the challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth and the global community.

We are delighted to welcome you to Cape Town - a city where history, democracy and cultural diversity converge - and to the Parliament of South Africa, an institution committed to ensuring that the voices of the people in their diversity are reflected in governance, legislation and oversight.

The CPC is the flagship annual conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), bringing together Speakers, Presiding Officers, Members of Parliament, parliamentary officials and governance experts from national and sub-national legislatures across the Commonwealth community.

Founded in 1911, the CPA works to strengthen parliamentary democracy by promoting good governance, accountability, transparency, respect for the rule of law and cooperation among legislatures. The CPA connects Parliaments from the Commonwealth’s nine geographical regions, creating opportunities for peer learning and reviews, legislative innovation and the sharing of best practices.

The conference is more than an annual meeting, it is a forum where parliamentarians engage in meaningful dialogue on issues that shape the future of democratic governance, sustainable development, economic inclusion and international cooperation.

The 69th CPC will be convened under the overarching theme: “Strengthening International Law and Parliamentary Democracy in a Changing World Order: Commonwealth Leadership”.

Over six days, delegates will participate in a comprehensive programme that includes:

• The Official Opening Ceremony
• The Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference plenary sessions
• Interactive policy workshops
• The CPA General Assembly
• Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference
• CPA Small Branches Conference
• Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities (CPwD) engagements
• Society of Clerks at the Table (SOCATT) meetings
• The Emilia Lifaka Memorial Lecture
• Youth Roundtable discussions
• Parliamentarian of the Year Awards
• Networking, cultural and official hospitality events

Together, these engagements foster collaboration across political systems, encourage knowledge-sharing and strengthen parliamentary institutions throughout the Commonwealth.

As host nation, South Africa looks forward to facilitating meaningful dialogue, building lasting partnerships and showcasing the country’s democratic journey, rich cultural heritage and renowned hospitality.

The Parliament of the Republic of South Africa believes that the exchange of ideas among parliamentarians strengthens institutions, enriches democratic practice and contributes to a more just, peaceful and prosperous Commonwealth.

We invite you to explore this website for information about the conference programme, registration, accreditation, accommodation, travel, venue details, media resources and updates.

We wish all delegates and visitors a productive conference and an enjoyable stay in South Africa.