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IPU is global inter-parliamentary institution.
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It was established in 1889 and was the first permanent forum for political multilateral negotiations.
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It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
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Its initial objective was arbitration of conflicts.
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It played important role in setting up Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague.
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Over time, its mission has evolved towards promotion of democracy and inter-parliamentary dialogue.
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It has worked for establishment of institutions at inter-governmental level, including UN.
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Initially, IPU was for individual parliamentarians, but has since transformed into international organization of parliaments of sovereign states.
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The national parliaments of 178 countries are its members and 12 regional parliamentary assemblies are its associate members.
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The IPU has permanent observer status at UNGA.