IPU exhibit marks 125 years of action for stronger democracies

IPU's 125th anniversary exhibit, on display in Geneva from 1 September to 19 October. ©IPU

A major outdoor exhibit being launched in Geneva on 1st September is the latest in a year-long effort to celebrate IPU’s 125th anniversary.

The exhibit will be on display along the Quai Wilson on Lake Geneva until 19th October and follows the conclusion of the 131st IPU Assembly. Entitled “Parliamentary action for peace and democracy”, the exhibit is composed of 50 panels that include a series of comic strips on parliaments and democracy by Franco-Swiss cartoonist Barrigue.

It presents the story of the world’s oldest multi-lateral political organization since its foundation in 1889. It showcases IPU’s critical influence on peace and democracy across the world over the years, including its role in the establishment of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the League of Nations.

The 50 panels also track the many ways the Organization, currently composed of 164 national parliaments, work to build democracy by strengthening parliaments, and by protecting and promoting human rights, gender equality, peace building and conflict prevention, sustainable development and international governance. The exhibition has been conceived as a travelling display for show in national parliaments and elsewhere in efforts to spotlight the work and ideals of the Organization to which they are affiliated.