The links between parliaments and citizens are fundamental to democracy, yet they are a challenge in almost every country. Parliament's standing depends on the trust of the people and being accountable to them. To be effective, parliament needs to be accessible and well understood, so that the public are regularly and actively involved in its work. The past few years have witnessed numerous efforts across many parliaments to engage more effectively with the public.

This one-day conference will focus on identifying the respective roles of parliamentarians and the parliamentary administration in strengthening links with citizens; innovations and emerging trends; and using the experience of peers to seek solutions to problems that have been encountered. It is targeted at parliamentarians, Secretaries General and parliamentary staff. The conference will have a practical approach, building on the examples of good practice in parliaments described Parliament and democracy in the twenty-first century. Further information on this theme can be found in the IPU's leaflet "Your Parliament: Working for You, Accountable to You", produced in support of International Day of Democracy 2010.

The conference is co-organized by the IPU and the Association of Secretaries General of Parliament.