PURPOSE: The International Day of Parliamentarism is celebrated every year on 30 June, the date in 1889 on which the International Parliamentarian Union was founded. The Day is a time to review the progress that parliaments have made in achieving some key goals to be more representative and move with the times, including carrying out self-assessments, working to include more women and young MPs, and adapting to new technologies. The Inter-Parliamentary Union was born 134 years ago this week. Discover our history in 134 seconds.
FORUM: “Achieving gender equality, action by action.‘’ International Day of Parliamentarism 2025. This year, in line with the IPU's theme of the year, we are encouraging you to join our new campaign. This year, we celebrate the IPU’s 136th anniversary; The IPU was founded on 30 June 1889 by a small group of parliamentarians who believed that parliamentary dialogue and diplomacy were a better way of settling differences than war. 136 years later, the IPU is the parliament of parliaments, a thriving international organization made up of 181 national parliaments and open to all 46,000 parliamentarians in the world. This year, with a world at war, the IPU’s foundational values have never been so relevant. That’s why we are asking you to mark this milestone in your parliament. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Parliaments4thePlanet, #Parliamentarians, #30june, #ParliamentarismDay.
EVENTS: on June 30th, At IPU Headquarter in Geneva Switzerland during the observance International Day of Parliamentarism 2025, we will celebrate the 136th anniversary of the IPU. As the IPU Forum of Women Parliamentarians celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, it honors the contributions of 40 influential women who have advanced gender equality and women's representation in politics. These trailblazing leaders have played pivotal roles in shaping the Forum's agenda, fostering global collaboration, and driving legislative reforms to empower women worldwide. Parliaments and parliamentarians must lead by example before preaching to the people. Register to participate and watch the livestream!
In Algeria: On the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism 2025, the Bureau of the Council of the Nation celebrated by reflecting on women’s progress in Algeria in a statement to the IPU. In line with IPU’s 2025 campaign goals on Achieving gender equality, action by action, this progress reflects the State's commitment to the principles of equality, equal opportunity, and women's empowerment. The Council of the Nation affirmed that gender parity, as enshrined in Algeria's Constitution, is a constitutional achievement.
In Andorra: The Women’s Network of the Parliament of Andorra will convene its first ordinary session on 30 June, on the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism. The Parliament of Andorra hopes that the work of this formal women’s network will contribute to strengthening the role of women in parliament, to make the parliament more gender-sensitive and to continue moving forward in terms of women’s rights.
In Angola: The Parliament of Angola held a workshop, ‘Parliamentary Action for Food and Nutritional Security” in the National Assembly on June 30 to commemorate the International Day of Parliamentarism. The workshop aimed to promote reflection and debate on the Parliament’s role in advancing food and nutritional security in Angola, with a focus on inclusive public policies, institutional effectiveness, and social justice.
In the Bahrain: Bahrain’s Parliamentary Group marked the occasion with several impactful initiatives. A joint session was organized by the Committees for Gender Balance in both the Shura Council and the Council of Representatives. The session was titled: "Gender Balance in Parliamentary Work in the Kingdom of Bahrain", and provided a platform for exchanging views on enhancing inclusivity and representation within the parliamentary framework. Social media campaigns highlighted milestones in women’s participation, showcasing Bahrain’s progress in gender equality. Parliamentary leaders issued public statements reaffirming their commitment to strong, representative institutions. Additionally, members of parliament engaged in televised and radio interviews, reflecting on legislative achievements and democratic values. These efforts underscore Bahrain’s dedication to the principles of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and its ongoing commitment to strengthening parliamentary governance.
In the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association: The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association marked the International Day of Parliamentarism with a statement from Secretary-General, Stephen Twigg, The CPA is committed to supporting better engagement and communication between Parliaments and the public. It has developed an Engagement, Education and Outreach Handbook as a practical resource which Parliaments can reference in their efforts to improve and expand their engagement work.
In the EU Parliament: To mark the International Day of Parliamentarism on June 30, the President of the European Parliament, Ms Metsola recorded a video statement with a particular focus on the 2025 IPU theme, gender equality.
In Fiji: To mark 2025’s International Day of Parliamentarism, the Fijian Parliament highlighted its strong commitment to gender equality over the past decade as they embedded gender scrutiny into its Standing Orders and actively supported women’s leadership networks. Fiji continues to reaffirm its dedication to building a more inclusive, gender-responsive democracy in line with IPU’s theme of the year, Achieving gender equality, action by action.
In Greece: The IPU marked International Day of Parliamentarism and the Organization’s 136th anniversary at a special event in Ancient Olympia, Greece. A central theme of the event was gender equality, aligning with the IPU’s 2025 campaign Achieving gender equality, action by action designed to foster gender-sensitive institutions and combat discrimination and gender-based violence. Participants also took part in a tree-planting ceremony, helping to reforest areas of Ancient Olympia following devastating wildfires, in the newly inaugurated IPU Park of Peace and Democracy.
In India: To mark the International Day of Parliamentarism, the Lok Sabha Speaker conveyed his best wishes to parliaments and representatives worldwide, highlighting their essential role in voicing people’s aspirations, ensuring accountability, and protecting rights, while reaffirming India’s Parliament as a pillar of democracy, unity, and constitutional values.
In the Inter-parliamentary Assembly of the CIS Member Nations: On the occasion of 2025’s International Day of Parliamentarism, the Interparliamentary Assembly of the CIS Member Nations issued a statement commemorating the day and historical significance of June 30.
In Lao PDR: The President of the National Assembly of the Lao PDR sent a congratulatory message to the IPU on the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism. They expressed their appreciation for this year’s theme: “Achieving gender equality, action by action”. The Lao PDR attaches great importance to gender equality, integrating Sustainable Development, especially Goal 5 (empower all women and girls) into its national socio-economic development plans.
In Mongolia: To celebrate the International Day of Parliamentarism, Mongolia’s State Great Hural (Parliament) organized several initiatives promoting democracy and parliamentary cooperation. A roundtable discussion, co-hosted with the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the Mongolia–UK Parliamentary Friendship Group at the UK Parliament, facilitated exchanges on parliamentary engagement and gender equality. Chairman H.E. Mr. Dashzegve Amarbayasgalan delivered a special video message reaffirming Mongolia’s dedication to democratic governance. Supporting the IPU’s gender campaign “Achieving gender equality, action by action,” Mongolian women MPs released many testimonial videos encouraging women’s political participation. These efforts highlight Mongolia’s active role in fostering inclusive, collaborative parliamentary values globally.
In PARLATINO: The Latin American and Caribbean Parliament congratulated the Inter-Parliamentary Union on the 136th anniversary of its founding in a press release. PARLATINO, as the oldest and most comprehensive interparliamentary organization in Latin America and the Caribbean, has embraced the parliamentary and pacifist vocation of the founders of the IPU since 1964, and reiterated its willingness to continue supporting the IPU.
In Peru: The Congress of the Republic of Peru commemorated the International Day of Parliamentarism on 23 June, reaffirming their commitment to an inclusive and accessible democracy. Peru will host the 11th World Conference of Young Parliamentarians in 2025, welcoming young MPs from around the world to discuss major global challenges.
In Poland: On International Day of Parliamentarism, Poland recognised parliament as the cornerstone of democracy, representing the people’s will and overseeing government actions, and reaffirmed ongoing commitment to the IPU.
In Russian Federation: Russia joined celebrations for IPU’s 136th anniversary. At the 592nd meeting of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation (June 18, 2025), senators adopted a Statement in connection with the International Day of Parliamentarism.
In Rwanda: On the International Day of Parliamentarism, the Parliament of Rwanda shared that it is dedicated to working and sharing its experience with other parliaments to enhance women's participation and empowerment and to promote gender equality for a prosperous world.
In Tajikistan: The Majlisi Namoyandagon Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan on the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism congratulated the IPU for its ongoing contribution to strengthening parliamentarism, fostering international cooperation, and improving the lives of people globally.
In Tunisia: For the International Day of Parliamentarism, the Assembly of People's Representatives of Tunisia congratulated the IPU for playing a pivotal role in promoting democracy, human rights, and parliamentary cooperation worldwide through dialogue, inclusivity, and support for sustainable development. The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to working with the IPU to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy, address global challenges, and uphold justice and peace.
In United Kingdom: The House of Commons flew the IPU flag in New Palace Yard for the International Day of Parliamentarism, as a symbol of reflection and progress in the vital role parliaments play in upholding democratic values.
In Uzbekistan: The Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan commemorated the International Day of Parliamentarism by sending a congratulatory letter to the IPU, noting the importance of 2025’s theme, Achieving gender equality, action by action and that strong parliaments are the cornerstone for democracy.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: 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. From biannual Assemblies that bring together hundreds of MPs and delegates, to our increasingly popular regional seminars and workshops on the Sustainable Development Goals, Explore the calendar of IPU upcoming events!
On July 22nd, the IPU Parliamentary Forum during the 2025 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development; Entitled Gender equality and health: fast forwarding progress, will focus on two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that are under review at the 2025 HLPF, namely, SDG 3, on health and wellbeing for all, and SDG 5, on gender equality and empowerment of women and girls. The parliamentarians participating in the annual HLPF session will explore these topics. Watch the livestream!
STATEMENTS: Watch the statement of IPU President on the International Day of Parliamentarism 2025; June 30th.
PODCASTS: How did the IPU grow from a handful of parliamentarians from 9 countries who met for the first time on 30 June 1889 to become the global organization of parliaments? Listen to the audio-podcasts!
CAMPAIGN MATERIALS: “Achieving gender equality, action by action.‘ It’s time for us to amplify efforts in our communications with the global parliamentary family. Discover the IPU’s work on Gender equality. Use the toolkit we have developed for the campaign including posters and social media assets. Get the campaign materials!
WHY WE CELEBRATE THE DAY?
Every year, on On June 30th, we celebrate the anniversary of the IPU. The Inter-Parliamentary Union promotes democracy and helps parliaments become stronger, younger, gender-balanced and more diverse. It also defends the human rights of parliamentarians through a dedicated committee made up of MPs from around the world.
The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments. It was founded more than 135 years ago as the first multilateral political organization in the world, encouraging cooperation and dialogue between all nations.
We invite you to organize an event or a debate in your parliament to highlight the value of parliamentary diplomacy. .
ACTIONS
Things you can do to celebrate the day:
Learn about the 10 Key actions for gender equality.
Host an event or debate: Organize a special event or parliamentary debate to celebrate the day focusing on gender equality and the campaign’s objectives.
Facilitate parliamentary diplomacy.
Identify the priority areas for parliamentary action.
Contribute to Build effective and empowered parliaments.
Promote inclusive and representative parliaments.
Support resilient and innovative parliaments
Catalyse collective parliamentary action.
Strengthen the IPU’s accountability.
Empower parliaments and parliamentarians to promote peace, democracy and sustainable development around the world.
PARTNERSHIPS
The International Day of Parliamentarism is co-organized by the United Nations General Assembly, the United Nations Member States, Inter-Parliamentary Union and the IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians. Today, the IPU comprises 178 national Member Parliaments and 14 regional parliamentary bodies.
Get involved!
Complete this sentence: “IPU - 135 years of ….” and share the video clip on your digital and social media
Communicate the recent Geneva declaration: Parliamentary diplomacy: Building bridges for peace and understanding.