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 44,000 members of parliament. IPU membership is made up of 180 national parliaments
An online conversation between experts and parliamentarians to bridge International Day of Democracy (15 September) and International Day of Peace (21 September).
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.
Youth Parliaments are one of the main public engagement tools used by parliaments across the world. Their formats and models vary considerably. Whilst they introduce parliamentary politics to many young people, it is also not always clear whether they enhance youth engagement with parliament and politics.
The seminar will hear from specific practices and explore different models of Youth Parliaments, to reflect on their effectiveness.