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The 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) was held in New Delhi from to . Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the meeting at the historic Samvidhan Sadan, and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla chaired the sessions. The conference saw record participation, with representatives from 42 Commonwealth countries and autonomous parliaments attending to discuss the effective delivery of parliamentary democracy.
Background
The CSPOC is an independent forum founded in 1969 by the then Speaker of Canada’s House of Commons, Lucien Lamoureux. It operates separately from the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Every two years the conference brings together Speakers and Presiding Officers from national parliaments of sovereign Commonwealth states to exchange experiences, strengthen parliamentary institutions and promote impartiality and fairness. Canada hosts the secretariat and provides organisational support.
Highlights of the 2026 conference
- Theme: “Effective Delivery of Parliamentary Democracy” emphasised transparency, inclusivity, responsiveness and the role of technology in bringing legislatures closer to citizens.
- Prime Minister’s address: In his inaugural speech, the Prime Minister noted that India had turned its diversity into a democratic strength and highlighted initiatives such as real‑time translation of parliamentary debates into regional languages using artificial intelligence.
- Speakers’ discussions: Delegates deliberated on responsible use of artificial intelligence in parliamentary procedures, the impact of social media on legislative practice, enhancing public understanding of parliament and ensuring the security and well‑being of members.
- Record participation: The New Delhi conference recorded the highest number of participating countries in CSPOC history. Delegates appreciated India’s hospitality and engagement with the Global South.
- Future host: At the closing session, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla handed over the chairmanship to Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the UK House of Commons, who will host the next CSPOC in London.
Significance
- Strengthening democracies: By sharing best practices, the CSPOC helps parliaments become more transparent, inclusive and responsive, thereby strengthening public trust.
- Focus on technology: Discussions on artificial intelligence and social media reflect efforts to modernise legislative processes and engage citizens, especially youth.
- India’s role: Hosting the conference for the fourth time underscores India’s commitment to parliamentary diplomacy and its leadership in the Commonwealth. It also offers an opportunity to showcase democratic achievements and share lessons with other nations.
Conclusion
The 28th CSPOC reaffirmed the importance of inter‑parliamentary dialogue in nurturing democratic values across the Commonwealth. Its focus on technology and inclusivity signals a forward‑looking approach to making legislatures more accessible and effective.
Sources: ET
