Istanbul: The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) commenced the proceedings of its 152nd General Assembly and related meetings in Istanbul on Wednesday, with a Moroccan delegation in attendance led by the Speaker of the House of Councillors, Mohamed Ould Errachid.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the general debate at this session, which will run until Sunday, is centered on the theme “Harnessing hope, strengthening peace and ensuring justice for future generations.” This comes at a time when the international community faces numerous challenges, including armed conflicts, climate change, economic inequalities, and rapid technological changes.

The assembly will emphasize the role of legislative institutions in promoting global peace and security and upholding justice and equity for both the present and future generations. The IPU’s standing committees are set to deliberate on draft resolutions focused on the role of parliaments in establishing effective post-conflict management mechanisms and restoring
lasting peace. Additionally, they will explore strategies for building a fair and sustainable global economy, addressing issues such as protectionism, tax evasion, and customs duties.

The 152nd IPU General Assembly will also include several forums and parallel meetings, such as the Forum of Women Parliamentarians and the Forum of Young Parliamentarians, along with specialized workshops on topics like diversity, climate change, and modern technologies.

A significant event during the Istanbul Assembly will be the election of a new Secretary General of the IPU. Established in 1889, the Union aims to foster cooperation and dialogue among national parliamentary assemblies worldwide. The IPU plays a pivotal role in promoting democracy and reinforcing the values of peace and human rights, serving as an institutional platform for exchanging experiences and expertise and addressing global issues from a legislative standpoint.