ParlAmericas is an independent network composed of national legislatures of 35 states from North, Central, and South America, and the Caribbean. Members of ParlAmericas are committed to promoting parliamentary participation in the inter-American system. They are also engaged in developing inter-parliamentary dialogue on relevant hemispheric issues. Through meetings and training opportunities, year-round discussion, and follow-up action, ParlAmericas members uphold their commitment to improving hemispheric dialogue, and advancing the objectives of the organization: •To contribute to the development of inter-parliamentary dialogue in dealing with issues on the hemispheric agenda •To increase the sharing of experiences, dialogue, and inter-parliamentary cooperation on issues of common interest to member states •To help strengthen the role of the legislative branch in democracy, and in the promotion and defence of democracy and human rights •To promote the harmonization of legislation, and development of legislation among member states •To contribute to the process of integration as one of the most appropriate instruments for sustainable and harmonious development in the hemisphere