The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Association of Secretaries General of Parliaments (ASGP) are delighted to present, Welcoming new
parliamentarians, a resource designed to offer insights and inspiration to parliamentary administrations worldwide as they carry out the important task of onboarding and orienting both first-time and re-elected members.

Every five years, the IPU, in close cooperation with the United Nations, convenes a World Conference of Speakers of Parliament. This World Conference aims to advance strong and effective multilateralism, with the UN at its core and where parliaments and MPs are called upon to play a key role: promoting accountability and democracy in international relations, carrying out parliamentary diplomacy in the service of peace and understanding, bringing the people’s voice to the UN, and helping to translate international commitments into national realities.

This issue brief addresses the growing challenge of rising military expenditure and the importance of democratic oversight. At a time of escalating global insecurity and record levels of defence spending, parliaments need clear, evidence-based information to ensure that such expenditure is transparent, accountable and aligned with national priorities and democratic values. This publication explains why parliamentary oversight matters and how it can be exercised effectively.