Comparative analysis of European and Ibero-American parliamentarism in contemporary international relations. Parliamentary bridges and bi-regional cooperation

Abstract

This article presents a comparative analysis of European and Ibero-American parliamentarianism within the framework of contemporary international relations,
emphasizing the strategic role of “parliamentary bridges” as mechanisms for bi-regional
cooperation. Through a theoretical and historical review, the article examines European parliamentary models and their evolution toward stable and functional systems. While presidentialism predominates in Ibero-America, countries such as Mexico, Peru and Chile have incorporated parliamentary elements such as legislative oversight and accountability. Furthermore, structural and functional similarities and differences are identified, highlighting parliamentary diplomacy as a key instrument for fostering political dialogue, legislative cooperation and democratic stability. In this regard, initiatives such as the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly (EuroLat) and the Ibero-American Program on Human Rights, Democracy and Equality of the OIE exemplify this collaboration dynamic. Strengthening these parliamentary ties is essential to consolidating a more cohesive political and cultural community capable of addressing global challenges through shared democratic governance.