The book “Parliamentary Pathways: Chronicles of a Voice in the Inter-Parliamentary Union, 2020–2023,” authored by Dr.Academician Akmal Saidov, Deputy of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, is a major contribution to documenting the evolving role of parliamentary diplomacy in the 21st century. The book was published by the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Tashkent, 2025, consisting of 340 pages.

It has been officially published and is scheduled for broad dissemination during the landmark 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), which will be hosted for the first time in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This symbolic setting not only marks a milestone in the IPU's history but also highlights Uzbekistan’s growing role in the international parliamentary community.

Covering the key years from 2020 to 2023, this book provides a first-hand account of the challenges and opportunities facing national parliaments at a time of global transformation. From the disruption of COVID-19 to renewed debates on global peace, democratic renewal, climate action, gender equality and youth empowerment, the author's reflections and documented interventions offer insight into how parliamentary engagement can shape and respond to the international agenda. As a long-serving parliamentarian, legal and human rights expert, and former Vice-President of the IPU, A. Saidov brings a unique perspective to the events and ideas covered in the book.

Furthermore, the book includes a Foreword by Martin Chungong, Secretary-General of the IPU, acknowledging A.Saidov’s significant contributions in advancing human rights, parliamentary diplomacy, climate action, gender equality, and peace-building initiatives during his tenure as IPU Vice-President and Executive Committee member.

The publication is designed not simply as a memoir or retrospective, but as a strategic tool for readers, in particular parliamentarians, academics, diplomats and development professionals who seek to understand the institutional arrangements and policy thinking that underpin the IPU's global mission. The book is divided thematically and chronologically, allowing readers to explore both the historical evolution and contemporary impact of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

The first part of the book is dedicated to the institutional foundations and development of the IPU. Founded in 1889 by peace activists Frédéric Passy and William Randal Cremer, the IPU was envisioned as a platform to advance peaceful dialogue through parliamentary means. From these roots, the organization has evolved into a global institution that brings together national parliaments to address complex international issues. The author follows this development through key historical turning points, including the expansion of the IPU's mandate to include human rights, sustainable development and peacebuilding.

In the second part, readers are introduced to the author's personal experience in a senior position in the IPU.  A.Saidov's time as a member of the IPU Executive Committee and Vice-President coincided with significant global changes. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he contributed to shaping the IPU's response to ensure the continuation of parliamentary functions through digital transformation and remote dialog. He has also been active on topics such as fiscal sustainability, environmental legislation and transparency reforms in parliamentary institutions.

Notably, the book details his active participation in executive sessions, standing committees, working groups and high-level forums on human rights, democracy and conflict prevention. These sections cover both the internal governance of the IPU and its dynamic external advocacy in cooperation with the United Nations and other global bodies.

A significant contribution of the book is its focus on Uzbekistan's achievements and strategic priorities within the IPU. Since the renewal of membership in 2017, Uzbekistan has become an active participant in inter-parliamentary cooperation. The book presents such important events as the election of A. Saidov to the IPU Executive Committee, the organization of numerous international forums and the translation of key IPU publications into Uzbek.

One of the most important developments detailed in the book is the initiative led by Uzbekistan to present the UN General Assembly resolution on “Enhancing the role of parliaments in accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” With the support of nearly 80 UN Member States, this resolution recognized the key role of national parliaments in integrating and monitoring SDG implementation. This achievement is not only described in the book but also documented on the official IPU website, reinforcing Uzbekistan’s leadership in aligning legislative practices with global development commitments.

The book also pays special attention to parliamentary initiatives on gender equality and youth empowerment, particularly the historic hosting of the 14th Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament in Tashkent. This event brought together leaders from across the globe to discuss how parliaments can lead on sustainability, inclusiveness, and resilience.

Moreover, the publication delves into the role of parliaments in promoting peace. In a world increasingly affected by conflict and polarization, the IPU’s initiatives such as the Manama and Luanda Declarations are shown to provide crucial platforms for dialogue. A. Saidov’s participation in drafting and promoting these outcomes illustrates the strength of parliamentary voices in peacebuilding processes.

Throughout the book, one can observe a consistent emphasis on institutional capacity-building. Uzbekistan’s parliament has adopted new procedures for oversight, accountability, and public engagement. These reforms, many of which were inspired or influenced by best practices shared through the IPU, demonstrate how global engagement can strengthen national governance.

As a reader, the structure of the book invites both casual and detailed engagement. Each chapter begins with a contextual introduction and ends with reflection points. Visual materials, such as photos from events, infographics, and scanned excerpts from declarations and speeches, enrich the reading experience and make the book an accessible resource even for those less familiar with parliamentary work.

The final sections of the book include an appendix featuring adopted resolutions, and media coverage of parliamentary events.

Ultimately, "Parliamentary Pathways" is more than a professional chronicle, it is a narrative of vision, leadership, and cooperation. It stands as an invitation to national parliaments and international actors alike to recognize the importance of inclusive, democratic institutions in addressing today’s global challenges.

In addition to being disseminated during the 150th IPU Assembly, the book is supported by a digital outreach campaign, with featured articles and summaries available on the IPU and Uzbek Parliament websites. The aim is to ensure accessibility not only to high-level stakeholders but also to young professionals, students, and the wider public interested in international affairs.

As the IPU continues to expand its influence and membership, this publication is a timely reminder of the indispensable role of parliamentary diplomacy. It is hoped that this book will inspire a new generation of leaders to uphold the principles of peace, justice, and democratic governance.

                     R.Arslonova,

Chief specialist of the National Centre of the

Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights