IPU’s Committee on Middle East Questions is holding the first in a series of roundtables that bring together parliamentarians from the region to find concrete ways to transform elements of conflict into factors of cooperation and coexistence. Through the neutral lens of science and technology, these events will serve to depoliticize potentially controversial issues. This first roundtable is on water. By focusing on technological solutions to water production, supply, systems and shortages, IPU is hoping to promote projects of peace in the Middle East through parliamentary diplomacy. The Geneva roundtable on water represents a meeting of minds between the scientific and parliamentary communities. Experts from CERN dealing with nuclear research, SESAME working on synchronic light and Waterlex developing water cooperation projects, will present to the MPs concrete examples of how science can be placed at the service of peace. All three organizations have ongoing projects in the Middle East, proof that by putting political differences aside, it is possible for opposing sides to cooperate. The parliamentarians from the region, in turn, will discuss the particular challenges they face in either accessing or producing water. The aim will be to move from discussion to concrete action by identifying potential and feasible projects for water in the region.
The Roundtable is open to all parliaments from the region, as well as members of the Middle East Committee. It takes place in closed session at IPU Headquarters in Geneva. |
