Tayebwa Pitches OACPS Reforms to Pacific Lawmakers in Brussels

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has engaged parliamentarians from the Pacific region in Brussels, outlining proposed reforms aimed at revitalizing the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Parliamentary Assembly. The meeting, held on November 5, 2026, focused on enhancing the Assembly's effectiveness and ensuring that all three regional groups have a stronger voice in its operations.

Strengthening Financial Independence

At the heart of the discussions is a proposal to bolster the Assembly's financial autonomy by creating a common fund financed through contributions from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. Tayebwa, who serves as President of the OACPS and Co-President of the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, emphasized that reliance on external funding has hampered the Assembly's ability to plan and act on its priorities.

"Our reliance on external financing has made planning difficult and limited our ability to act on our priorities," Tayebwa told the Pacific Parliamentary Group. He noted that similar concerns had been raised by African and Caribbean lawmakers during earlier consultations, underscoring a shared desire for greater self-determination.

A Unified Vision for the Future

The proposed reforms are part of a broader effort to make the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly more responsive to the needs of its member states. By pooling resources, the three regions aim to reduce dependency on external donors and ensure that the Assembly can pursue its agenda without financial constraints.

Tayebwa's briefing to the Pacific group follows discussions with African and Caribbean parliamentarians, signaling a concerted push to build consensus across regions. The move is seen as a critical step toward strengthening the Assembly's role in international diplomacy and development cooperation.

Next Steps

While the proposal has garnered support, it still requires formal approval from all three regional groups. If implemented, the common fund would mark a significant shift in how the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly operates, potentially setting a precedent for other intergovernmental bodies seeking greater financial independence.

As the OACPS continues to navigate global challenges, the outcome of these reforms could shape the future of multilateral cooperation among African, Caribbean, and Pacific nations. Tayebwa's engagement with Pacific lawmakers demonstrates a commitment to inclusive dialogue and a shared vision for a more resilient and effective Assembly.