'The 4th International Seminar for Parliamentary Research Services' hosted by the National Assembly Research Service will be held at the National Assembly Members' Office Conference Hall from 9:40 am to 6:40 pm on November 1, 2013. NARS held the first such international seminar back in 2010 in order to share experience, explore future possibilities, and build cooperative networks with overseas parliamentary research services.

This year's seminar is different both in its size and scope. Past seminars included participants mainly from Asian countries. However, over this short span of time NARS has expanded its network so as to invite delegates from around the world. Over 50 delegates from 17 different countries including the United States, Japan and Australia will be joining the seminar-the largest delegation to the seminar to date. NARS expects this event to serve as a bridge connecting research services from different horizons.

Moreover, while previous seminars mainly addressed roles and functions of parliamentary research services, this year's event will feature additional discussion on women's political participation. The seminar will provide a venue for reinforcing the basic approach toward fostering women's political participation-a frequently discussed topic among modern democracies.

The preparation and planning for the event has been intense so as to ensure its success. NARS hopes that this seminar will serve as an opportunity for research services to expand their networks and enhance cooperation.