The House Democracy Partnership (HDP) is a bipartisan commission of the U.S. House of Representatives that works directly with over 20 partner parliaments around the world to support the development of effective, independent, and responsive legislatures. HDP is proudly implemented by the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI).
In this month’s alumni profile, the Honorable Princess Kasune, member of the Zambian Parliament, shares her experience participating in HDP programming.
What parliament and chamber are you a member of?
The Parliament of Zambia, where I am the Government Deputy Chief Whip and Member of Parliament of the Keembe Constituency.
What HDP program did you participate in?
The Legislative Track of the Summit for Democracy.
What is your favorite thing about your country?
The current government is holding on and improving on the democratic tenets. Seeing the new ruling government making education free and the increasement of the Community Development fund. Above all the beautiful people and natural resources such as Victoria falls.
Why did you decide to become a member of parliament?
To be a voice for my rural communities, especially women and children.
Looking back on the HDP program, what was most impactful for you?
The diversity of the countries and participants such as gender, positions, countries, and races.
How are you applying your experience from the HDP mission to your role as a member of parliament?
Improving media presence and what I do as a member of parliament through social media and mainstream media.
Advocating for more female participation in politics and governance through my role as a member of parliament, Deputy Chief Whip, and as the Chairperson for all the female members of parliament caucus, the Zambian Women Parliamentary Caucus.
What advice would you give to new members of parliament?
Find a mentor. Take advantage of media and use it to your advantage. Find time to join a caucus or organizations such as HDP. Never be afraid to reach out to others.
What accomplishments in parliament are you most proud of?
Setting an example for girls and women that they also can be in governance and the political space.
Coming from a humble background as a double orphan as a teenager, teenage mother, and HIV positive, one can still be part of the decision-making process, democracy, and lawmaking in the Summit, society, country, and our world.
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