The Parliamentary Network Secretariat had a chance to sit down with Senator from Belgium, Honourable Alain Destexhe. He is the former Chair of the PN, and has seen much in terms of the global development debate in his time as a legislator and practitioner. We were able to have a candid moment with him, asking questions about what he sees for the Network in the future, as well as understanding Hon. Destexhe at a more personal level.

How the is Parliamentary Network relevant and important to you and your colleagues internationally?

It is very important because it is the only access we have to the World Bank and the IMF which have been traditionally “hermetic” international organizations.

In what ways can the Parliamentary Network positively impact the development debate in the coming 2 years?

Personally, I would like the PN to bring the issue of demographic growth in the public debate. This topic is not enough taken into account by World Bank policies.

When did you begin to engage with the Parliamentary Network andwhat were the reasons to become a Member of the Board at the Network?

I’m involved for more than ten years and I was the President of the network for three years. I tried to ensure some kind of continuity.

Do you have any thematic interests that you would like to concentrate on as a Board Member? How would you like to see your interests addressed within the Parliamentary Network?

Again, I would like to bring to the attention the demographic growth of Africa and some countries in Asia. If the population of a country grows too fast, it could really hinder development efforts even with the best practices and policies.

Do your constituents see the effects of international development cooperation? If yes, how?

Only a small portion of my constituents are interested by this topic but those ones are very interested and committed.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Traveling and reading.