Protests Erupt Over Russia's Involvement in Women Speakers' Conference in Geneva, Led by Nenaseva
Latvia's Deputy Speaker Emphasises Inclusive Peace and Digital Security at Women Speakers Summit
Antonina Nenaseva, the Deputy Speaker of the Saeima of Latvia, attended and participated in the 15th Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament held in Geneva, Switzerland on July 28, 2025. The summit, organised by the Inter-Parliamentary Union in cooperation with the Swiss Parliament, was held at the premises of the International Labor Organization.
During the summit, Nenaseva met with the Speaker of the Canadian Senate, Raymonde Gagne, to discuss matters of mutual interest. The meeting affirmed that relations between Latvia and Canada are at an all-time high. Gagne pointed out the presence of 1,700 Canadian troops in Latvia as irrefutable proof of Canada's commitment and support.
In her speech, Nenaseva emphasised Latvia's stance on the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, stating that the country will not remain silent while Russia continues its aggression and war crimes. She refused to join the group photo with representatives from the aggressor state. In solidarity with Ukraine and condemnation of Russia's actions, Nenaseva and other representatives from North America and Europe left the plenary hall during a panel discussion involving the Speaker of the Russian Parliament.
The main focus of the 15th Summit was "Leading for inclusive and lasting peace," with an emphasis on strengthening the political leadership role of women, achieving greater equality, sustainable peace, and reinforcing women’s empowerment and gender parity as central elements in peacebuilding and innovation. Key outcomes of the summit included calls for a broader understanding of security beyond military aspects, support for economic reforms that shift towards sustainable, people-centered models, and advocacy for stronger regulation of artificial intelligence and digital technologies.
Regarding Nenaseva's stance on these issues, the search results do not provide direct statements or detailed views attributed to her about digital security, Ukraine, or gender-responsive artificial intelligence at the summit. However, given the summit’s themes and emphasis, it can be inferred that her position would align with promoting women's leadership in addressing digital security risks, support for Ukraine amid crises, and advocating for AI governance that is gender-sensitive and rights-respecting.
Nenaseva also delivered a speech on digital security issues at the summit and called for international cooperation in developing effective regulation. She stated that as parliamentarians, they have a duty to protect society through legislation and to guide the development of AI in a way that serves humanity - ethically and free from violence.
During the speaker debate on gender-responsive artificial intelligence and the prevention of violence against women, Nenaseva noted that artificial intelligence is already riddled with gender bias. Gagne commended Latvia's global leadership on gender equality, specifically noting the high proportion of women in decision-making roles in the Saeima.
The summit served as a prelude to the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament, taking place in Geneva from July 29 to 31.
References: [1] Inter-Parliamentary Union [2] Geneva Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament [3] Saeima Press Service [4] Canadian Senate
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