International Day of Parliamentarism

International Day of Parliamentarism History

International Day of Parliamentarism is an annual observance that celebrates the importance of parliaments as the cornerstone of democracy around the world. The day aims to raise awareness about the role of parliaments in implementing policies and legislations that address various challenges faced by nations, and to encourage inter-parliamentary cooperation on key global issues. On this day, events and activities are organized to highlight the work of parliaments, their responsibilities, and the need for their continuous development and improvement.

The observance is rooted in the establishment of Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the global organization of parliaments, founded in 1889. For India, International Day of Parliamentarism holds a special significance as it provides an opportunity to celebrate our vibrant democracy and its rich parliamentary traditions. The Indian Parliament, comprising of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), represents the diversity and aspirations of the Indian people. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values, protecting human rights, promoting transparency, and ensuring that elected representatives work toward the welfare of the nation.

On the occasion of International Day of Parliamentarism, various events and activities are organized across India to emphasize the vital role of the Indian Parliament in the development of the country. Conferences, seminars, and meetings are held at national and regional levels, engaging parliamentarians, civil society organizations, academia, and citizens to discuss ways to strengthen the democratic institutions and processes in the country. The day is observed on 30th June each year, commemorating the establishment of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. The International Day of Parliamentarism provides an occasion for India to join the global community in acknowledging the essential contributions of parliaments to democracy, good governance, and the well-being of citizens.

International Day of Parliamentarism facts

• Parliamentary systems are typically either bicameral, consisting of 2 chambers, or unicameral, 1 chamber. According to the UN, out of 193 countries, 79 are bicameral and 114 are unicameral.
• At the current rate of progress, gender parity in national legislative bodies will not be achieved before 2063.
• About 60% of the world's countries operate under a parliamentary system, including Canada, Australia, India, Israel, Japan, and most Western European nations.
• The first general elections in independent India took place in 1951-1952, marking a significant moment in India's parliamentary democracy.
• The Indian Parliament consists of two houses called the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The Lok Sabha has 543 elected members, while the Rajya Sabha has 245 members, out of which 233 are elected by state legislatures, and 12 are nominated by the President.

In the News and Trending in India for International Day of Parliamentarism

Top things to do in India for this observance

• Explore what makes a good parliament system.
• Read about different countries' responses to Covid-19.
• Watch Samvidhaan: The Making of the Constitution of India (2014). It is a 10-part TV series directed by Shyam Benegal that explores the drafting process and historical background of the Indian Constitution.
• Read a book to learn more about Parliamentarism in India. Here are our recommendations:
  1. The Indian Parliament: Beyond the Seal and Signature by R.K. Samyal
  2. How India Became Democratic: Citizenship and the Making of the Universal Franchise by Ornit Shani
  3. The Indian Parliament and Democratic Transformation by Subhash C. Kashyap