Building Peace Through Dialogue at the UK Parliament | Martha Mburli Lingong

One of the most enriching parts of Wednesday's experience at the UK Parliament was attending the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the Commonwealth meeting, a space where policy, scholarship, and lived realities met in powerful ways.

Alongside fellow Commonwealth Scholars, I had the honour of engaging in a forward-looking conversation with, Professor Kingsley Abbott, Director of the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, Dr. Olivia Kokushubila Lwabukuna, Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

We explored how research, lived experiences, and inclusive policymaking can come together to shape a better, fairer future across the Commonwealth.

The discussions touched on key issues affecting young people, especially those from the unrepresented voices in societies. We talked about the importance of grounding policy in real stories, real struggles, and real solutions and how scholars like us can contribute meaningfully to this process.

As someone deeply engaged in the area of media, multilingual mediation, and conflict resolution, this session reaffirmed my belief in the power of dialogue, representation, and cultural understanding in building lasting peace.

 I left the room reminded that true change begins when diverse voices come together not just to speak, but to be heard and to co-create new paths forward.

I'm grateful for this opportunity, especially as this creates a major impact on my journey as a commonwealth scholar. I'm equally very proud to represent Cameroon at such an important gathering of minds and missions.

• Martha Mburli Lingong | Open Dreams | Wednesday, July 16th, 2025