From 28 February - 1 March, the United Nations convened a global consultation on "Governance and the post-2015 development agenda" at the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand, South Africa. Pursuant to the Baha'i International Community’s involvement in the United Nations’ post-2015 development agenda, Mr. Daniel Perell attended the event alongside 250 attendees from a variety of agencies to discuss themes and offer recommendations on  governance and its role in the post-2015 agenda.

Mr. Perell was invited to speak on a panel before the plenary. Because of the Baha'i Faith’s emphasis on promoting a unified vision in the creation of any development plan, Mr. Perell encouraged participants to avoid partisanship and narrow interests in the determination of governance development goals. Experience demonstrates that the dispassionate search for solutions results in the betterment of the human condition and is conducive to the cooperation which is so vital for global development.

With specific reference to the role of governance, Mr. Perell stressed that principles of governance have implications not only for governments, but also for individuals, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

Global governance priorities highlighted by participants included: the importance of accountability, the primacy of human rights, the necessity for democratic institutions at all levels, and opportunities for the participation of those affected in all stages of development processes. With determination and vigilance, the coming months will see the articulation of these objectives in practical terms and, ultimately, the incorporation of such ideals into the next United Nations development framework.