The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments.

What began in 1889 as a small group of parliamentarians, dedicated to promoting peace through parliamentary diplomacy and dialogue, has since grown into a truly global organization with 178 Members and 14 Associate Members. 

The IPU facilitates parliamentary diplomacy and empowers parliaments and parliamentarians to promote peace, democracy and sustainable development around the world. 

Our slogan is: For democracy. For everyone.

Our vision is: We want a world where every voice counts, where democracy and parliaments are at the service of the people for peace and development.

Our mission is: The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments. We promote democratic governance, institutions and values, working with parliaments and parliamentarians to articulate and respond to the needs and aspirations of the people. We work for peace, democracy, human rights, gender equality, youth empowerment, climate action and sustainable development through political dialogue, cooperation and parliamentary action.

We are financed primarily by our Members out of public funds. Our headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland. We also have offices in New York, United States of America and Vienna, Austria.