Young Parliamentarians Forum of the BRICS Countries

The first Forum of young parliamentarians of the BRICS countries took place in St. Petersburg, Russia from 11 to 14 October. The first Young Parliamentarians Forum of the BRICS (YPFB) was organised by the administration of St. Petersburg as well as Russian Center for Promotion of International Initiatives and BRICS Youth Expert Society.

Each country was represented by five delegates from BRICS countries. Raymond Matlala led the South African delegation to St. Petersburg. The delegates were welcomed by the adviser to the chairman of the Legislative Assembly of St. Petersburg V.S. Yajna, as well as chairman of the Committee on Youth Policy and Interaction with NGOs R.Y. Abdulina. 

During the forum the following topics were discussed; youth parliamentarism, youth policy, youth entrepreneurship, digital economy, fourth industrial revolution, education and science. As the head of the South African delegation Raymond participated in all three commissions which then reported to the entire forum for further discussions. The three commissions were;

• Youth Parliamentary Diplomacy
• E-Diplomacy
• Economic Diplomacy

Among other things the establishment of the International Association of Young Parliamentarians forum was discussed. The head of the delegations including Raymond Matlala of South Africa participated in a session on the development and draft of the final Action Plan for this milestone. Although this initiative is led by the BRICS nations, the International Youth Parliamentarian Association (IYPA) will be inclusive of all nations of the world.

 In concluding the YPFB, The head of delegations attended the 3rd BRICS Parliamentary Forum attended by Presiding Officers of BRICS Parliaments and currently chaired by China. Where the action plans of the YPFB were share with the leaders of the BRICS countries. In South Africa this report was share with Honourable Thandi Modise the chairperson of the National Council of Provinces who led a delegation of the South African Parliament to the 3rd BRICS Parliamentary Forum.

Raymond discussed the possibilities of establishing South African Youth Parliamentarian Forum with Hon Modise. This was well received and a meeting will be set to further discuss this important milestone.

The YPFB was inclusive in its participation. Participants included a group of young leaders with diverse backgrounds including youth parliamentarians, entrepreneurs, academics, NGO leaders, journalists and scientists

The report which include a plan of action is attached here.