Samarkand: MP Hassan Ibrahim Hassan, representing the Arab Group and a member of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Bureau of Young Parliamentarians, emphasized the global responsibility of maintaining freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of resources through the Strait of Hormuz. This was highlighted during his chairmanship of the open interactive session titled "When Maritime Corridors Become a Human Rights Issue: The Role of Young Parliamentarians in Protecting Global Energy Security," as part of the 12th IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the session underscored the significance of the Strait of Hormuz as a crucial energy artery connecting economies and markets from Asia to Europe. MP Hassan stressed the vulnerability of the global economy to disruptions in this vital corridor, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in safeguarding it. He referenced United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 of 2026, which underscores the necessity of respecting freedom of navigation and condemns threats to international shipping.
MP Hassan pointed out that the global focus has expanded to consider the humanitarian implications of disruptions in maritime corridors. Human Rights Council Resolution 61/1, issued on March 25, addresses these impacts, emphasizing that conflicts affect not only security and economic stability but also people's rights and dignity. He called for sustained international collaboration to ensure safety and prevent disruptions in strategic navigation routes.
The Bahrain Parliamentary Division's proposal, selected for the third consecutive year amidst competition from Canada, Germany, and Malta, reflects a growing acknowledgment of the need to protect freedom of navigation as an international responsibility linked to peace and security.
MP Hassan highlighted the role of young parliamentarians, who are already experiencing the effects of these challenges and are well-positioned to address them. They possess legislative and policy tools to advocate for energy diversification, renewable investments, and international cooperation, thus safeguarding maritime corridors and ensuring global stability.
He concluded by urging parliaments and legislative bodies to enhance parliamentary diplomacy, foster dialogue, and build collective solutions to prevent maritime corridors from becoming arenas of conflict or pressure. The session's theme reflects a paradigm shift, recognizing young people's crucial role in shaping and responding to these global challenges.