28th CSPOC Concludes in New Delhi with Renewed Push for People-Centric Democracy

The 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) concluded in New Delhi on Friday with a renewed commitment to make democratic institutions more transparent, inclusive, responsive and accountable to the people.

Delivering the valedictory address, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla said democratic institutions can remain strong and relevant only when they uphold transparency and inclusivity, ensuring public trust and giving voice to all sections of society, especially those on the margins. He emphasized that these principles strengthen the enduring bond between citizens and the State.

The three-day conference, inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, witnessed historic participation with the largest number of countries attending a CSPOC to date. Shri Birla described the unprecedented representation as a defining feature that would make the New Delhi conference a significant milestone in the history of Commonwealth parliamentary cooperation.

During the valedictory session, Shri Birla formally handed over the chairmanship of the 29th CSPOC to Rt. Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the UK House of Commons, and conveyed best wishes for the success of the next conference to be held in London.

Reflecting on the deliberations, the Lok Sabha Speaker said discussions on responsible use of artificial intelligence in parliaments, the impact of social media, citizen engagement beyond elections, and the health and well-being of Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff were particularly insightful. He noted that technology, inclusion and global partnerships would shape the emerging world order and redefine democratic functioning.

Shri Birla expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for inaugurating the conference at the historic Constitution House and for his address highlighting India’s democratic heritage and commitment to global cooperation. He also thanked the Vice-President of India, the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association for their contributions.

Earlier in the day, chairing a Special Plenary Session, Shri Birla said the foremost duty of Presiding Officers is to adapt democratic institutions to contemporary needs while remaining anchored in constitutional values. He underlined that both consensus and dissent are strengths of democracy and must be expressed within the bounds of parliamentary propriety.

Highlighting the role of technology, Shri Birla said initiatives such as e-Parliament, paperless functioning and digital databases have enhanced transparency and efficiency. He also stressed the importance of Parliamentary Standing Committees, calling them “mini-Parliaments,” and urged Presiding Officers to strengthen them to ensure effective legislative scrutiny.

The 28th CSPOC concluded on a note of optimism, solidarity and shared resolve to strengthen parliamentary democracy through dialogue, cooperation and innovation.