International Day of Parliamentarism

International Day of Parliamentarism History

The International Day of Parliamentarism in Australia aims to recognize the importance of parliaments in promoting democracy and good governance. It is celebrated every year on June 30, the anniversary of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, a global organization of national parliaments that promotes dialogue and cooperation between lawmakers. The day also aims to raise awareness of the role of parliaments in addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and conflict resolution. It provides an opportunity for parliamentarians to reflect on their performance and identify ways to improve their effectiveness and responsiveness to the needs of their constituents.

The history of the International Day of Parliamentarism in Australia goes back to 2018 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring June 30 as the International Day of Parliamentarism. The resolution recognized the crucial role of parliaments in promoting peace, sustainable development, and human rights. Since then, several countries including Australia have started celebrating the day by organizing events and activities to highlight the importance of parliamentary democracy. The day provides an opportunity for parliamentarians to engage with the public and promote transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in the legislative process.

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 Parliament of Australia has a long-standing tradition of mateship, whereby politicians from opposing parties work together in a civil manner to find common ground and solve problems.
• Australia has a bicameral parliamentary system, consisting of a Senate and a House of Representatives. The Senate has 76 members, while the House of Representatives has 151 members.

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

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Explore what makes a good parliament system.
• Read about different countries' responses to Covid-19.
• Watch The Parliament of Australia: An Introduction (2013). This short documentary, produced by the Parliament of Australia, provides an overview of the Australian parliamentary system and its functions.
• Read a book to learn more about parliamentarism in Australia. Here are our suggestions:
  1. The Australian Study of Politics edited by R.A.W. Rhodes
  2. Responsible Government in Australia by Geoffrey Sawer
  3. The Modern Legislative Process in Australia by Tony Blackshield