Congress, the Supreme Court and Accountability Mechanisms: The Role of Non Governmental Organisations in Sustainable Development

Abstract

The emphasis and reference to “Women Empowerment” in this volume, should not infer that men assume insignificant roles as role models for the authors. In fact my greatest heroes have always included Abraham Lincoln and John F Kennedy – which is why in part, figures such as Jackie Kennedy and great institutions – such as the United States Congress, have always been greatly admired and revered.

It is perhaps in view of my male heroes, as well as male role models who have played such uplifting and inspiring roles in my life, that I have been inspired to commit some sections – as well as highlight the importance of the need for women to empower each other – as well as others.

At times when we particularly encounter our moments of deepest “valley experiences”, there is greatest need for sources of empowerment.

“…..looking back at the wonderful journey of life
I turned round, and so far,
What has struck most has not been the number of mountains or peaks experienced,
Or the valleys crossed,
But that, for every mountain,
There is a valley,
And what has resounded most, is not just how important the length of time spent in the valley may significantly differ from that experienced on the peak,
But what experiences and lessons have been taken from such times spent – particularly, during those times in the valley.”

Keywords: Congress, Supreme Court, Accountability Mechanisms, Non-Governmental Organisations, Sustainable Development