ECOWAS Parliament Meets In The Gambia To Discuss Free Movement Protocol.

By Helen Udo,Outlook Media ABUJA.

The National Assembly of The Gambia is hosting a delocalized meeting of the ECOWAS Parliament’s joint committees to discuss the implementation of the protocol on free movement of persons, right of residence, and establishment in the region.

Opening Statement by Speaker Fabakary Jatta

In his opening statement, Speaker Fabakary Jatta emphasized the importance of the protocol in achieving regional integration and economic growth. He highlighted the challenges faced by citizens in moving across borders, including bureaucratic obstacles and security concerns.

Call to Action for Parliamentarians

Speaker Jatta urged parliamentarians to focus on legislative reforms, oversight, and advocacy to address these challenges and ensure the successful implementation of the protocol. He emphasized the need for member states to harmonize their national laws with regional commitments and to review and amend immigration policies and labour laws to align with the provisions of the protocol.

Importance of Free Movement for Economic Growth

The Speaker stressed that the free movement of persons, right of residence, and establishment are fundamental to the vision of a united, peaceful, and prosperous ECOWAS region. He emphasized that parliamentarians have a crucial role to play in making this vision a reality and must approach their deliberations with a sense of urgency, commitment, and determination.

Declaration of the Meeting Open

Speaker Jatta declared the meeting open, wishing for engaging, fruitful, and impactful deliberations and actions. He expressed confidence that together, the parliamentarians can overcome the challenges before them and pave the way for a more integrated, peaceful, and prosperous ECOWAS region.source:Africaeye.

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