What Is the Inter-Parliamentary Union and Why It Matters for South Africa

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Thoko Didiza, will lead a parliamentary delegation to the 152nd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 15 to 19 April. During this time attention turns to the role of this important global parliamentary body and what it means for South Africa.

Founded in 1889, the Inter-Parliamentary Union is the global organisation of national parliaments, bringing together 183 member parliaments and 15 associate members. Unlike international forums led by governments, the IPU provides a platform for elected representatives - Members of Parliament - to engage directly on global issues and shape international dialogue from a legislative perspective.

For the Parliament of South Africa, participation in the IPU forms a key part of its role in parliamentary diplomacy. It enables Parliament to represent the interests of South Africans on the global stage, contribute to international debates on peace, democracy and development, and strengthen cooperation with other legislatures, particularly within Africa and the Global South.

The IPU Assembly, which meets twice a year, is the organisation's highest decision-making body. It brings together parliamentarians from across the world to debate pressing global challenges and adopt resolutions that guide national and international action. Supporting the Assembly are structures such as the standing committees, which focus on areas including peace and international security, sustainable development, democracy and human rights, and United Nations' affairs.

These committees play a critical role in developing draft resolutions that are debated and adopted by member parliaments. In addition, the IPU's Governing Council oversees the organisation's work and makes key institutional decisions, including the election of senior leadership.

A notable feature of the IPU Assembly is the provision for emergency items - urgent global issues requiring immediate parliamentary attention. Any member parliament, including South Africa, may propose such an item, but it must meet strict criteria and secure a two-thirds majority vote to be included on the agenda.

The IPU is also led by a Secretary-General, who serves as its chief executive. The Secretary-General oversees the Secretariat and helps implement the IPU's strategic priorities, working closely with the President and guided by the executive committee.

While the IPU operates at an international level, its work has direct relevance for South Africans. Issues such as economic development, peace, governance and social justice - which are central to the IPU's agenda - directly affect citizens' lives. Through participation in the IPU, Parliament ensures that South Africa's voice is heard in shaping global responses to these challenges.

Ultimately, the IPU provides a unique platform where the Parliament of South Africa can engage with the world, contribute to global solutions and strengthen its own democratic processes - all in the interest of the people it serves.

Malentsoe Magwagwa
13 April 2026