Islamabad: The world today observes the International Day of Parliamentarism, an occasion dedicated to underscoring the vital role of parliaments in fostering democracy and reaffirming the power of people as the ultimate arbiters in shaping their nations’ destinies.
This year’s observance, held annually on June 30, carries the timely theme of ‘Achieving Gender Equality, Action by Action’. This focus highlights the ongoing global efforts to increase women’s representation and influence in legislative bodies worldwide.
The International Day of Parliamentarism commemorates the founding of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in 1889, the first permanent political forum for international negotiations. Parliaments are widely recognized as cornerstones of functioning democracies, serving as platforms for open debate, lawmaking, oversight of the executive, and representation of diverse populations.
The day serves as a crucial reminder of the need for strong, transparent, accountable, and representative parliaments to ensure that democracy thrives and is responsive to the needs of its citizens.
