Context: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, during a series of bilateral meetings held on the sidelines of the 150th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Tashkent, highlighted the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between India and Uzbekistan.

Meaning of  the context: Birla is leading the Indian Parliamentary Delegation (IPD) for the 150th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Summit.

Learning Corner:

• The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is a global organization that fosters cooperation among national parliaments to promote peace, democracy, and sustainable development. 
• Established in 1889, it is the oldest international parliamentary organization and plays a crucial role in parliamentary diplomacy.
• Slogan is: For democracy. For everyone.
• Key Facts About IPU
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
  • Members: 180 national parliaments and 15 associate members.
  • Motto: “For democracy. For everyone.”
• Core Objectives:
  • Strengthening democratic governance and parliamentary institutions.
  • Promoting gender equality and youth participation in politics.
  • Defending human rights of parliamentarians worldwide.
  • Supporting peace-building efforts through parliamentary dialogue.
• Structure of IPU
  • IPU Assembly: The main decision-making forum where global political and social issues are discussed.
  • Governing Council: Sets policies and elects the Executive Committee.
  • Executive Committee: Oversees operations and administration.
  • Standing Committees: Focus on key themes like peace, democracy, development, and cooperation

Source : DD News