The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is an international organisation of parliament. It was established in 1889 with an aim to promote the parliamentary dialogue world-wide and works for peace and cooperation among the peoples. It was formed on the initiative of two parliamentarians and men of peace i.e. William Randal Cremer (UK) and Frederic Passy (France) for the permanent forum for political multilateral negotiations.

It works with close co-operation with United Nation Organisation (UNO), regional parliamentary organisations, international intergovernmental organisation and non-governmental organisation for the arbitration of conflict.  

It has transformed and became a centre for dialogue and parliamentary diplomacy among legislators representing every political system and all the main political leanings in the world -- constituting a unique platform for observing political opinions and trends around the world.

Areas of Working of Inter-Parliamentary Union

• Promoting democracy worldwide: It is an apex institution through which people's will is expressed and on that basis laws are passed.
• International peace and Security: It carries extensive programme on disarmament, conflict situations, security and cooperation.
• Sustainable Development: It is one of the prime motives of the Union that revolving around human development, social and economic justice, and advancement of democracy.

Promoting and defending human rights: It is the main goal of Union and it is also mentioned in their organisation statutes as human rights as an essential factor leading to a democracy and development.