Parliament, Senate, National Assembly, called by different names in various countries, these systems exist to allow for organized discussion and debate. But occasionally political tensions are so strong, they erupt into physical violence. Join us as we travel around the world and peek at government brawls from all over. In order of increasing absurdity:

 

10.

On January 19, 2007 Taiwanese legislature breaks into an all out brawl with people climbing on desks and even throwing shoes at one another. Supposedly the fight began when a large group of DPP (Democratic Progressive Party) representatives stormed the podium in an attempt to halt a vote. Pretty sure there are policies and protocols for that.

 

9.

Korean National Assembly group scuffle. Note that the older politician knows enough to take off his tie, he's clearly seen his fair share of work fracases.

 

8.

Taiwanese legislature again fist fighting only 5 short months later. Ironically, it was again 24 members of the DPP charging the speaker’s podium that sparked the melee.

 

7.

Even the representatives in the good ole US of A aren’t above instigation. Senator Lowell Barron (Democrat) purportedly called Senator Charles Bishop (Republican) a ‘son of a bitch’ leading Bishop to punch Barron in the head inside Alabama Senate Chambers.

 

6.

The Taiwanese may fight often during their legislative sessions but it looks mostly like shoving. Watch this video of Bolivian politicians; they really know how to throw punches.

 

5.

This Sri Lankan parliament fight has been edited with music. It makes for lovely entertainment.

 

4.

Kenyans take parliament fighting to WWF levels with over the head chair smashing.

 

3.

Kenyan badasses have nothing on these crazy Indians tear their chambers apart. Ripping microphone stands from desks and slinging them through the air like nunchucks and whipping each other at point-blank.

 

2.

It isn’t just male members of Taiwan’s parliament that resort to violence. This bitch slap set off an hour-long brouhaha.

 

1.

And how can we forget the Czech Health Minister and Czech Vice President throw-down at a press conference. Classy.

  

There you have it boys and girls, civilized governments from around the globe behaving like small children. Join us next time when we take a look at more universal lunacies in national governments.

Special Bonus Video: Montage of Taiwanese parliament fights