Following the Executive Committee meeting held in the run-up to the session, the 51st Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of La Francophonie is entering its decisive phase with the official opening of its proceedings in Yaoundé. More than 400 parliamentarians representing 97 member sections have gathered to discuss the major issues facing the Francophone world.
The 51st Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie (APF) officially opened on Friday, July 10, 2026, in Yaoundé, Cameroon, with several hundred parliamentarians from five continents in attendance. Until July 12, more than 400 parliamentarians representing 97 member sections will debate issues related to democracy, strengthening inter-parliamentary cooperation, and the major international challenges facing the Francophone world.
“Your presence here today demonstrates above all the trust that the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie has consistently placed in the Cameroonian Parliament. This trust is the result of ongoing cooperation and a shared commitment to the ideals that underpin our Francophone community.”
Théodore Datouo, President of the National Assembly – Cameroon
Established in 1967, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie now comprises 97 member sections. Recognized as the Consultative Assembly of the Francophonie, it promotes political dialogue, supports democratic processes, and encourages cooperation among the parliamentary institutions of the Francophone world.
“Parliamentary dialogue remains one of the last spaces capable of bringing people closer together. Our meeting comes at a particular moment in international history.”
Hilarion Etong, President of the APF – Cameroon
During this session, parliamentarians will examine several major issues on the international agenda, including the future of multilateralism, state sovereignty, the challenges related to artificial intelligence, the impacts of climate change, and peace and security issues.
“This 51st session, which we are pleased to hold in Cameroon, provides an opportunity for parliamentarians from the 97 member sections of the APF to discuss and exchange ideas on geopolitical issues, as well as on societal topics such as artificial intelligence. We will be discussing multilateralism. At a time when it is being challenged by many partners, we wanted to reaffirm the necessity of dialogue within the Francophonie.”
Dieynaba Diop, President of the French Section of APF – Franco-Senegalese
By hosting this 51st session, Cameroon confirms its commitment to Francophone parliamentary dialogue. The conclusions expected at the end of the session should contribute to strengthening cooperation between member parliaments and promoting concerted responses to the common challenges facing the Francophone community.
