25th Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum – Opening Remarks
Hon Alicia Kearns, the inaugural speaker at the 24th Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum, extended a warm welcome to the delegates and paid tribute to Congressman Pittinger for his leadership and to the late Sir David Amess, a steadfast supporter of the forum. Hon. Kearns delved into the global security landscape, highlighting the emergence of autocratic regimes and their detrimental impact on democracy, the rule of law, and the international rules-based order. She cautioned that states are now exhibiting characteristics akin to terrorists, employing cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, economic coercion, and military force to expand their influence and commit atrocities. She cited instances such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, China’s actions against its Muslim population, and other human rights violations globally. She delineated three pivotal priorities: deterrence, which involves establishing and safeguarding clear red lines to prevent aggression; resilience, which focuses on cultivating long-term national and intergovernmental strength against hostile infiltration and influence; and commitment, which emphasizes firmly aligning with allies, upholding democratic principles, and fortifying multilateral institutions. She implored parliamentarians to resist neutrality in the face of unlawful aggression and to enhance international cooperation to uphold freedom, democracy, and human rights. Kearns concluded by urging attendees to utilize the forum discussions to reinforce unity and return home with renewed resolve to safeguard core democratic values.
