IPU and UNHCR in brief IPU UNHCR The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments. We work to safeguard peace and drive positive democratic change through political dialogue and concrete action. The only international organization to bring together the world’s national parliaments, we promote democracy and peace through our unique parliamentary membership. UNHCR is mandated to lead and coordinate international action for the protection of refugees and the resolution of refugee problems around the world. UNHCR strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State and to return home voluntarily. By assisting refugees in returning to their own country or in settling in another country, UNHCR seeks lasting solutions to their plight. Our work on strengthening parliaments’ abilities to deliver on their democratic mandate by being more representative, transparent, accountable and effective is underpinned by our focus on gender equality, human rights, development and peace and international security. UNHCR’s Executive Committee and the UN General Assembly have also mandated UNHCR to assist stateless persons and authorized the organization to assist internally displaced persons. We often work with partners, including the United Nations and its specialist agencies, to ensure that parliaments have the most up-to-date tailored and practical information on issues they have to address at national level. UNHCR seeks to reduce the incidence of forced displacement by encouraging States and institutions to create conditions that are conducive to the protection of human rights and the peaceful resolution of disputes. Reaching an ever-changing pool of about 47,000 parliamentarians worldwide is critical to any efforts to inform changes on policy and legislation. IPU is an independent, self-governing body funded mainly by our Members. Founded in 1889 and with 164 national parliaments as Members and 10 regional parliamentary bodies as Associate Members in 2014, IPU is still growing, reflecting the global demand for democracy. The organization offers protection and assistance to refugees and others in an impartial manner, on the basis of their need and irrespective of their race, colour, religion, political opinion or gender. UNHCR is committed to the principle of participation and consults refugees on all decisions that affect their lives. UNHCR works in partnership with governments, regional organizations, and international and non‑governmental organizations. 64