This month I visited Uganda as part of a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association visit in partnership with the Uganda Women Parliamentary Association. We visited to exchange ideas about the struggles and opportunities faced by women members of parliament.

That exchange of ideas occurred in a very well-organised workshop for women parliamentarians. The discussions were wide-ranging but focused on effective committee work, public speaking, and communications. As an MP I’ve been a member of several different select committees and witnessed first-hand how effective they can be at holding the Government to account, giving a voice to vulnerable communities and giving Women Parliamentarians more opportunities to excel.

The trip was incredibly eye-opening, and we were able to discuss a wide range of issues including what action we can take to empower women across the world. We need as many women as possible to get involved in politics across the world and reaching across divides to share experiences will help to make that a reality.