Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has been named to a distinguished global group working to promote dialogue in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. His appointment places Ghana at the forefront of parliamentary efforts aimed at securing peace in the region.
The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has included Bagbin in its specialised Task Force, which was set up in March 2022 after the outbreak of the war. The group serves as one of the few remaining channels where lawmakers from both countries can still engage despite strained diplomatic relations.
The Task Force has already held several confidential meetings since its formation and conducted a joint mission to both Kyiv and Moscow in July 2022. Its membership represents all six geopolitical blocs of the IPU, ensuring broad international input into its work.
Bagbin’s selection reflects his reputation for neutrality, conflict mediation and his ability to engage opposing sides constructively. He is set to serve alongside seven other senior parliamentarians drawn from different regions of the world.
As a member, he will participate in deliberations during IPU assemblies, join direct interactions with parliamentary delegations from Russia and Ukraine, and contribute to diplomatic outreach aimed at reducing tensions and paving the way for a peaceful settlement.
His new role adds to his track record in international mediation and positions the Ghanaian Speaker to play an active part in efforts to end one of the most consequential conflicts of the decade.
