The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is a unique forum that aims to support representative democracy around the world by providing a unique forum for dialogue. IPU tries to achieve its goals by:

• - fostering contact, coordination and exchange of information between Parliaments and parliamentarians
• - monitoring of and commenting on events of international importance
• - defending and promoting human rights - necessary factors of development and democracy
• - contributing to the better knowledge and understanding of functioning of the representative institutions and strengthening their means of actions

The IPU has been working closely with the United Nations whose principles and objectives it shares. Furthermore, it cooperates with regional inter-parliamentary organizations and other international and civil society organizations. The IPU currently has 181 member States and another 15 associate member. Czechia was a member of IPU from 1921 to 1950 and it became members again in 1993.

More information on the IPU website.