SENATE PRESIDENT LEADS DELEGATE TO IPU 152ND ASSEMBLY
IPU Assembly Opens in Istanbul, Türkiye
The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) held the inaugural session of the 152nd Assembly in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
Under the theme “Nurturing hope, securing peace and ensuring justice for future generations,” the Assembly comes at a critical moment.
Against the backdrop of unfolding and ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises, in the Middle East and beyond, the IPU has brought together hundreds of lawmakers to strengthen parliamentary dialogue and diplomacy in pursuit of peaceful solutions.
Speaking at the Inaugural Ceremony of the 152nd IPU Assembly, IPU President Dr. Tulia Ackson thanked the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş for hosting the Assembly during uncertain times, emphasizing that in challenging moments, parliamentary diplomacy must prevail.
Reflecting on the Assembly’s theme - “Nurturing hope, securing peace and ensuring justice for future generations” - she highlighted that peace is not secured through strength alone, and stressed the growing frustration among young people who feel excluded from decisions shaping their future.
Dr. Ackson called on parliamentarians to lead solutions on climate change, representation gaps, and human rights.
Outgoing Secretary General Martin Chungong called for unity in addressing the pressing challenges of our time, in line with the Assembly’s overarching themes of peace and justice.
Marking the 50th anniversary of the IPU’s Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians, Mr. Chungong also thanked Members of Parliament and partners worldwide for their support throughout his twelve years as Secretary General.
Key highlights of the 152nd Assembly include:
Meetings across all IPU bodies, including Standing Committees, and Forums for Women and Young Parliamentarians
Discussions on post-conflict peacebuilding, trade cooperation, and tackling corporate tax avoidance
Marking the 50th anniversary of the IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians
Workshops on disability inclusion, interfaith dialogue, the two-State solution, and climate action
Election of a new Secretary General, succeeding Martin Chungong
Adoption of the IPU Strategy for 2027–2032
Opening of nominations for the 2026 Cremer-Passy Prize
As the global organization of national parliaments, the IPU continues to play a vital role in promoting peace, democracy, and sustainable development, while strengthening institutions to be more inclusive, representative, and resilient.
The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio who is also an Executive Member of the IPU leads Nigeria's delegation to the Assembly.