India will host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries (CSPOC) in 2026, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced at the CSPOC Standing Committee Meeting in Guernsey.
The event will focus on the use of artificial intelligence and social media in parliamentary processes.
In his address, Birla highlighted India’s economic progress and technological advancements, including its growing role in sectors like agriculture, fintech, artificial intelligence, and research. He invited attendees to experience the blend of India’s cultural heritage with modern development during the upcoming conference.
Birla discussed the role of parliaments in tackling global challenges like climate change, terrorism, and cybercrime. He emphasized the need for inclusive and transparent parliamentary practices and highlighted the importance of dialogue among parliamentary leaders to address shared issues.
The CSPOC platform was described as a space for enhancing cooperation and exchanging parliamentary practices among member countries. Birla said that India’s role as host is an opportunity to reflect the country’s traditions and its focus on inclusivity.
Quoting Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, a concept that means “the whole world is one family,” Birla called for cooperation among nations to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and malnutrition. He also discussed the role of parliaments in shaping policies and allocating resources for sustainable development and governance.
The Standing Committee set the agenda for the 2026 CSPOC and discussed challenges facing parliaments globally. Birla highlighted India’s history of hosting the conference in 1970-71, 1986, and 2010, and invited presiding officers from Commonwealth nations to join the 2026 event in New Delhi.
