Humanity faces the task of ensuring the survival and well being of future generations, as well as the preservation of the natural foundations of life on Earth.  We are convinced that, in order to cope with major challenges such as social disparity, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, the threat of terrorism, and the endangerment of global ecosystems, all human beings must engage in collaborative efforts.

In order to ensure international co-operation, to secure the acceptance and enhance the legitimacy of the United Nations while strengthening its capacity to act, people must be more effectively and directly included in the activities of the United Nations and its international organizations.  They must be allowed to participate more fully in the UN’s activities.  We therefore recommend a gradual implementation of democratic participation and representation on the global level. 

We recognize the establishment of a consultative Parliamentary Assembly at the United Nations as an indispensable step. Without requiring a change to the UN Charter at the outset, a crucial link between the UN, the organizations of the UN system, governments,

national parliaments and civil society can be achieved through such an assembly.

Such an assembly would not simply be a new institution; as the voice of citizens, the assembly would be the manifestation and vehicle of a changed consciousness and understanding of international politics.  The assembly could become a political catalyst for further development of the international system and of international law.  It could also substantially contribute to the UN's capacity to realize its high objectives and to shape globalization positively.

A Parliamentary Assembly at the United Nations could initially be composed of national parliamentarians.  Step by step, it should be provided with genuine rights of information, participation and control vis à vis the UN and the organizations of the UN system.  In a later stage, the assembly could be directly elected.

We appeal to the United Nations and the governments of its member states to establish a Parliamentary Assembly at the United Nations.  We call for all organizations, decision-makers and citizens engaged with the international common interest to support this appeal.