Parline database on national parliaments

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is the global organization of national parliaments. and has published various comparative data on all national parliaments in the world via the Parline database since 1996. In April 2024, the IPU launched a redeveloped version of Parline, that offers a new data model and additional tools such as the Data explorer, API and Data dictionary.

Parline comprises some 650 data points for each parliamentary chamber in the world where there is a functioning parliament (currently 269 in 190 countries). About 70 data points relate to parliamentary elections, while others provide insight on the annual activities of parliament, including their working methods, administration, composition, parliamentary mandate, and law-making, oversight and budget powers. Data is widely used and referenced by parliaments, researchers, journalists, civil society, international organisations and the IPU Secretariat. Especially, the IPU’s flagship Monthly ranking of women in national parliaments and data on the sex/age of Speakers, committee chairs, and members are used to monitor Sustainable goals 5.5 and 16.7 and reported annually to the United Nations.

Data is collected from parliaments themselves – notably through the Network of Parline Correspondents – based on questionnaires, and via desk research using authoritative sources (e.g. election commissions, parliamentary websites etc.).

Various teams at the IPU form a group of Parline stakeholders, each focusing on areas such as youth, human rights, gender equality, communications, and member relations. The intern will work under the supervision of the Senior Researcher and the Data Officer at the IPU’s Resource Centre to carry out desk research, ensure quality control, and assist with data entry. The intern may also support the optimization of Excel files for improved data analysis and management, including the use of advanced formulas, pivot tables, and potential data visualisations. Other tasks may include preparing datasets or infographics for IPU publications, events, and social media (e.g. Assemblies, the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament etc.), as well as testing technical developments/enhancements.

Accountabilities

Within delegated authority, the intern will support the work of the IPU’s Parline database and related activities, contributing to the collection, quality control, and dissemination of parliamentary data. The intern will:

• Assist with the collection, review, and updating of parliamentary and election-related data.
• Help ensure data accuracy, consistency, and verification of various data in Parline
• Support research on gender and youth issues.
• Contribute to data visualizations and reports for publications and IPU events, such as the IPU Assembly and the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament.
• Collaborate with team members and stakeholders to promote and enhance the Parline database, in preparation for its 30th anniversary in 2026.
• Provide general support for Parline-related activities and parliamentary data as needed.

Deliverables

1. Desk research is completed
2. Newly collected data are inputted
3. Data-check/quality control is completed

Requirements

Candidates should be able to demonstrate:

• Currently studying Masters’ degree or above in political science, public policy, international relations, data science, or other relevant fields
• A passion for data and an interest in elections, parliamentary processes, governance, or public policy
• Good research and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and work independently
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel
• Ability to manage remote work, as needed
• Curiosity and willingness to learn
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, as well as ability to read Spanish and/or French

Desired Attributes

• Knowledge of parliaments is a plus
• Knowledge of WordPress is a plus
• Knowledge on leverage tools (such as Power Query, Power Pivot, and/or macros) is a plus
• A creative mindset with a strong interest in exploring innovative ways to present and analyse data
• Experience in database management or working with structured data
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including functions, formulas, pivot tables, and charts
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Excel charts, Tableau, Power BI, Google Data Studio).
• Ability to read other languages, in particular Arabic or Russian, is an asset

Location

The internship can be carried out remotely or at the IPU headquarters in Geneva. Preference will be given to candidates based in Geneva.

Duration

The internship will be on a part-time basis for a period of 6 months, and may be renewed. The intern should be able to work for at least 15 hours per week. Working arrangements can be tailored to the situation of the chosen candidate. The preferred start date is before 22 April 2025.

Remuneration

A monthly allowance of up to CHF 1500 (based on a 37.5 hour week), pro rata the number of hours worked, will be paid towards living expenses.