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A woman places carnations into shields of anti-riot policemen. © Reuters / Vasily Fedosenko 

Peace and security

We help parliaments build peaceful and inclusive societies, fight terrorism and violent extremism and curb the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
Ukraine

The IPU was founded in 1889 as the first political multilateral organization in the world that encouraged countries to meet and mediate rather than resolve their differences through war. Throughout our history we have continued to provide a forum for parliamentary diplomacy and dialogue between nations. Both of the founders of the IPU as well as a dozen other leading IPU figures went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

We play a special role in countries emerging from conflict or in transition to democracy, helping to develop their parliaments as robust and democratic institutions that can heal national divisions. 

Disarmament is also crucial for peace. The IPU lobbies hard for a nuclear-weapons-free world and promotes the full implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1540 on preventing non-State actors from obtaining weapons of mass destruction.

Because war often affects women and youth disproportionately, we focus on peace and security in relation to these groups, based on UN Security Council resolutions 1325 and 2250.

We work with the United Nations, Interpeace, Parliamentarians for Nuclear Non-proliferation and Disarmament (PNND) and other organizations that share our commitment to peace.

IPU Members also have a dedicated Committee on Peace and International Security  that meets at every Assembly.

Explore peace and security

Conflict prevention, peacebuilding and reconciliation

We are founded on the premise that conflicts and differences should be settled through peaceful means, such as mediation and inclusiveness.

Disarmament and non-proliferation

We encourage, train and support parliaments and MPs in their important responsibility to act to ensure sustainable security for future generations.

Countering terrorism and violent extremism

The IPU brings a parliamentary response to countering terrorism and extremism conducive to violence, working in partnership with the United Nations.

Interfaith dialogue

Interfaith dialogue is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool for peacebuilding and diplomacy. It acknowledges the central role of religion and belief in many people's lives, and the influence of religious leaders and institutions in shaping communities.
Latest news and stories on peace-building
Rome

20/06/2025

Parliamentarians worldwide unite in Rome to champion interfaith dialogue

interfaith

17/06/2025

New IPU report highlights good parliamentary practices on religion and belief

Zambian Vice President visits IPU

12/06/2025

Zambian Vice-President visits the IPU

Marta Lorenzo - UNWRA

13/05/2025

A conversation with...Marta Lorenzo from UNRWA

Award

15/04/2025

President of Uzbekistan honours IPU Secretary General

Latest publications on peace-building

Human security and common security to build peace

With every passing month, our world becomes more violent and dangerous.

Parliamentary report on religion and belief

Religion and belief play a significant role in our States and societies.

Engaging parliaments of the Pacific region in the implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1540

One of the aims of United Nations Security Council resolution 1540 (2004) is to prevent non-State actors from accessing weapons of mass destruction.

Related events

The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

Aug212025
On August 21, the IPU will mark the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism with a high-level webinar focused on Educational Policies for Preventing Terrorism and Empowering Victims.

When less is more: Alternatives to legislation when combating hatred based on religion or belief

Jun112025
Webinar 4 in the series: From theory to action: Parliamentarians against hatred based on religion or belief – Crafting pathways to more peaceful, inclusive and just societies

High-level Seminar on the Universalisation of the Biological Weapons Convention in Africa

Feb102025
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Geneva, Switzerland