The Inter-Parliamentary Union is marking International Day of Parliamentarism by encouraging parliaments worldwide to strengthen democracy through gender equality, inclusion and accountable leadership.
Every year on 30 June, countries around the world celebrate the International Day of Parliamentarism, recognising the essential role that parliaments play in protecting democracy, representing citizens and shaping laws that improve lives. This year’s observance carries added significance as the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) celebrates 136 years since its founding in 1889.
The 2025 campaign, themed “Achieving Gender Equality, Action by Action,” challenges legislatures to move beyond commitments and implement practical measures that increase women’s representation, create more inclusive institutions and strengthen democratic governance.
Today, the IPU represents 181 national parliaments and approximately 46,000 parliamentarians worldwide, making it the largest global organisation dedicated to parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy.
The annual observance is also an opportunity for parliaments to assess their own progress in becoming more representative, transparent and responsive to the people they serve. Many are introducing reforms that encourage greater participation by women and young leaders while embracing digital technologies that improve accountability and public engagement.
Across the globe, countries are marking the day in different ways while sharing a common goal of building stronger democratic institutions.
In Rwanda, parliament reaffirmed its commitment to sharing its experience in advancing women’s representation and gender equality with legislatures around the world.
Fiji highlighted a decade of work embedding gender-responsive parliamentary procedures and supporting women in political leadership.
The European Parliament released a special message highlighting the importance of gender equality, while Greece hosted an international gathering focused on democratic cooperation, parliamentary diplomacy and environmental sustainability.
In India, parliamentary leaders reaffirmed the role of legislatures in protecting constitutional values, safeguarding citizens’ rights and ensuring government accountability.
The United Kingdom marked the occasion by flying the IPU flag outside Parliament, while legislatures in Bahrain, Algeria, Mongolia, Tunisia, Peru and many other countries hosted public events, workshops and awareness campaigns promoting more inclusive governance.
The IPU believes stronger parliaments create stronger societies. Effective legislatures provide oversight, pass laws that protect human rights, improve access to education and healthcare, strengthen economic development and ensure governments remain accountable to the people they serve.
With conflict continuing in many parts of the world, the organisation says the values upon which it was founded — dialogue, diplomacy and peaceful cooperation — are more relevant today than ever before.
Beyond legislation, the organisation is encouraging parliaments to become institutions that reflect the diversity of the communities they represent, particularly by increasing opportunities for women and young people to participate in political leadership.
International Day of Parliamentarism also serves as a reminder that democracy is strengthened when institutions continue evolving to meet modern challenges, embrace innovation and create opportunities for every voice to be heard.
As governments confront complex global issues ranging from climate change and economic uncertainty to technological transformation and social inequality, the IPU says effective, inclusive and representative parliaments remain one of democracy’s most important foundations for building peaceful, resilient and prosperous societies.
