The IPU facilitates parliamentary diplomacy and empowers parliaments and parliamentarians to promote peace, democracy and sustainable development around the world.
Nearly every country in the world has some form of parliament. Parliamentary systems fall into two categories: bicameral and unicameral. Out of 190 national parliaments in the world, 78 are bicameral (156 chambers) and 112 are unicameral, making a total of 268 chambers of parliament with some 46,000 members of parliament. IPU membership is made up of 181 national parliaments
Throughout the year, the IPU and its Members organize many events for parliamentarians to exchange good practices, acquire the latest information and identify avenues for action.
The IPU has been collecting data on parliaments since its inception in 1889, including information on women’s participation in politics since 1945. In this section, discover the IPU's knowledge bank for and about parliaments.
Public engagement in parliamentary work on climate change
Summary
15.00 – 16.30 (Geneva, CET)
With the profound impact of climate change on people's lives, there is a growing expectation for parliaments and elected representatives to proactively address this issue. Given the complexity of combating climate change, public engagement is both necessary and challenging. This seminar explores two approaches that demonstrate how parliaments can effectively involve the public in their initiatives on climate change:
- Community engagement on the Climate Change Bill in South Africa. This case study showcases how parliaments can consult widely on proposed legislation to combat climate change, taking into account a range of voices from the community..
- Escazù Agreement: citizen participation in environmental matters in Latin America. This case explores the role of parliaments in the Escazú Agreement, which mandates public engagement on environmental issues in Latin America.
This seminar will also hear an update following the Parliamentary Meeting at COP28 in December 2023. Join us for insightful discussions into ways to engage the public in parliamentary efforts in addressing climate change.