The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, 16 January 2026: The 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) concluded today in New Delhi with renewed commitment to strengthen democratic institutions and make them more people-centric, accountable, and transparent. The three-day conference was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and saw historic participation from a record number of member countries.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, delivering the valedictory address, handed over the chairmanship of the 29th CSPOC to Rt. Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the UK House of Commons, and wished him success for the next conference in London.
Shri Birla highlighted that democratic institutions remain strong when they are transparent, inclusive, responsive, and accountable to citizens. He stressed that transparency builds public trust, while inclusivity ensures voices from all segments of society—especially the marginalized—are heard. Recalling the 56-year legacy of CSPOC, Shri Birla said the conference continues to foster dialogue among Commonwealth legislatures and explore ways to enhance parliamentary efficiency and responsiveness.
Reflecting on the sessions, Shri Birla noted deliberations on responsible use of AI in Parliaments, the impact of social media, citizen engagement beyond elections, and the well-being of MPs and parliamentary staff were particularly significant. He emphasised that technology, inclusion, and global partnerships will shape the new world order. He also expressed confidence that bilateral meetings and informal interactions during the conference strengthened bonds among member countries.
Earlier, while chairing a special plenary session, Shri Birla observed that modern democracies face both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges. He underlined that the foremost duty of Presiding Officers is to adapt democratic institutions to contemporary needs while remaining anchored in constitutional values. Shri Birla stressed that consensus and dissent are both strengths of democracy, provided they are exercised within the framework of parliamentary propriety.
The Speaker highlighted the growing expectations of citizens in the digital age and noted initiatives such as e-Parliament, paperless functioning, and digital databases enhance transparency, efficiency, and responsiveness. He also emphasized the pivotal role of Parliamentary Standing Committees, describing them as “mini Parliaments,” and called for their strengthening to enhance legislative oversight and accountability.
Shri Birla concluded by expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister, Vice-President, President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, and Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association for their valuable presence and support, which enriched the deliberations.
The 28th CSPOC concluded on a note of optimism, solidarity, and renewed resolve, reinforcing the enduring relevance of parliamentary dialogue in strengthening democratic governance worldwide.
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