In a world plagued by war and instability, the 152nd Assembly of the International Parliamentary Union taking place from 15 to 19 April in Istanbul, Türkiye, under the theme: “Nurturing hope, securing peace and ensuring justice for future generations”, becomes even more important and a source of hope for stability.
The theme signals the IPU’s willingness to adapt and change according to the prevailing geo-political realities to ensure that its Assembly is relevant and useful to the citizens of its 183 member Parliaments.
Among the most important mandates parliaments perform are their oversight over the executive and finding ways in which to work collaboratively. In a world that has become obsessed with waging war and conflict, the role of the IPU cannot be overemphasised.
Currently chaired by Dr Tulia Ackson, from Tanzania, the IPU is headquartered in Switzerland and meets annually and bi-annually, as a matter of practice. Three standing committees constitute the engine of the IPU: the Standing Committee on Peace and International Security; the Standing Committee on Sustainable Development; and the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights.
During the three days of deliberations, these committees will consider such topics as disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control; violent conflict prevention; sustainable peace; climate change and sustainable development; improvements to the functioning of parliaments; democracy and human rights in the digital era; as well as a fair and inclusive world.
In addition, various sectoral parliaments will occur, including the women’s parliament and the recently established youth parliament. Various caucus and lobby groups will also meet to discuss continental interests. These include the Arab Group, the Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Group of Latin America and the Caribbean, the Twelve Plus Group and the Africa Groups.
True to form and in line with IPU slogan, “For Democracy. For Everyone”, this is what drives the work of the union, without any consideration to power or wealth. Every parliament has the same standing and discussion topics are determined and influenced by the issues currently affecting the world today.
The 152nd IPU Assembly is an opportunity to restore some dignity and honour to humanity at a time when the globe is riven by conflict and war.
Sibongile Maputi
13 April 2026
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