The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is the international organisation of parliaments. It was established in 1889.
The IPU is the focal point for world-wide parliamentary dialogue and works for peace and co-operation among peoples and for the firm establishment of representative democracy. It supports the efforts of and works in close co-operation with the United Nations, whose objectives it shares. The IPU also co-operates with regional inter-parliamentary organizations, as well as with international intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations which are motivated by the same ideals.
IPU hearing, New York, 21 February 2019
Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann, Senator Denis O’Donovan, Deputy John Brassil, Senators Pádraig Ó Céidigh and Michelle Mulherin representing the Houses of the Oireachtas at the IPU hearing at the United Nations in New York.
IPU sessions
The IPU holds two general assemblies each year which bring together parliamentarians from around the globe. The Oireachtas participates in these assemblies and the Irish delegation is usually led by the Ceann Comhairle or the Cathaoirleach.
What does the IPU do?
The IPU
- fosters contacts, co-ordination, and the exchange of experience among parliaments and parliamentarians of all countries
- considers questions of international interest and concern and expresses its views on such issues in order to bring about action by parliaments and parliamentarians
- contributes to the defence and promotion of human rights - an essential factor of parliamentary democracy and development
- contributes to better knowledge of the working of representative institutions and to the strengthening and development of their means of action
The 137th IPU Assembly, St. Petersburg, 2017. Image: IPU/Russian Federation Parliament
©IPU/Pierre Albouy, 2016
Contact details
Inter-parliamentary unit
Houses of the Oireachtas Service
Leinster House
Kildare Street
Dublin 2
D02 XR20