Egypt-led initiative rallies 1,100 lawmakers worldwide to push for de-escalation and global diplomacy

Ahram Online , Sunday 12 Apr 2026

An initiative led by Egyptian MP Sahar Albazar has brought together more than 1,100 parliamentarians from over 150 countries, calling for coordinated global action to de-escalate conflicts and revive diplomacy amid growing concerns over the worldwide impact of war.

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Bringing together more than 1,100 parliamentarians from over 150 countries, the initiative reflects a growing recognition that today’s crises are interconnected and require collective, cross-border solutions.

Egyptian Member of Parliament Sahar Albazar, who launched the initiative, stated that it represents one of the most significant parliamentary mobilizations for peace in recent years.

The initiative warns of the global ramifications of continued armed conflicts, particularly for developing nations.

As a result of these conflicts, developing nations, whose economies are already strained by inflation and debt, face mounting pressures on their food security (due to disrupted supply chains), energy markets (which become increasingly volatile), and their efforts to achieve sustainable development and combat climate change (by diverting resources to meet other more pressing demands).  

According to Albazar, conflicts are no longer local, but constitute global risks shared by everyone.

She added that by reaching out to over 1,100 parliamentarians worldwide, “we are sending a clear message: the voice of dialogue must rise above escalation.”

As leaders, Albazar continued, “we are responsible for maintaining global stability through diplomacy, not conflict.”

Belizean parliamentarian Janelle Chanona echoed Albazar’s sentiment.

She emphasized legislative responsibility in moments of crisis. 

“It is essential that parliamentarians go on record about taking a clear and principled stand on our collective responsibility to advance de-escalation, dialogue, and accountable global leadership,” Chanona said.

Similarly, Gambian lawmaker Abdoulie Omar Ceesay highlighted the need for decisive parliamentary action.

“This initiative reflects the responsibility of parliamentarians to act decisively in moments of global tension. Placing our positions clearly on record is not symbolic; it is a necessary step toward advancing diplomacy and preventing escalation,” he said.

Pakistani parliamentarian Mirza Ikhtiar Baig described the effort as both timely and necessary.

“This is a timely and commendable initiative. At a moment of rising global tensions, it is essential for parliamentarians to speak with clarity and conviction in support of peaceful resolution,” he said.

The initiative calls for immediate and coordinated global action, including prioritizing ceasefires, reviving diplomatic negotiations, protecting civilians and infrastructure, and safeguarding the global economy from further shocks.

It also highlights the role of parliamentarians as key actors in promoting peace and accountability.

As elected representatives, members of the parliament are uniquely positioned to advocate for diplomatic solutions, uphold international law, and ensure that global commitments are reflected in national policies.

 

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