India to Host 2026 Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference

January 13, 2025

India is set to host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries (CSPOC) in January 2026. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced this at the recent CSPOC Standing Committee Meeting in Guernsey. The conference will centre on the role of artificial intelligence and social media in parliamentary processes. Birla brought into light India’s economic growth and technological advancements. He invited participants to witness the integration of India’s rich cultural heritage with its modern developments during the conference.

Background of CSPOC

The CSPOC was established in 1969 by the then Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada, Lucien Lamoureux. It serves as a platform for Speakers and Presiding Officers from Commonwealth parliaments. The conference is held every two years, with Canada providing a secretariat to facilitate its activities. The group operates independently without formal ties to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association or the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Objectives of the Conference

The primary goals of CSPOC include promoting impartiality and fairness among parliamentary leaders. It seeks to enhance knowledge and understanding of parliamentary democracy. Additionally, it aims to develop parliamentary institutions across member nations. The conference is an opportunity to discuss best practices and share experiences among Commonwealth countries.

India’s Role and Responsibilities

As the host nation, India will have the opportunity to showcase its traditions and commitment to inclusivity. Speaker Om Birla emphasised the importance of dialogue among parliamentary leaders to address global challenges. He pointed out issues such as climate change, terrorism, and cybercrime, which require collaborative efforts from all nations.

Agenda Setting for 2026 Conference

The Standing Committee is responsible for setting the agenda for the upcoming conference. This committee comprises 15 members, with a quorum of five required for decision-making. The committee’s chair is the Speaker of the lower house of the hosting jurisdiction. The agenda will focus on issues facing parliaments globally, including sustainable development and governance.

CSPOC was initiated in 1969 by Lucien Lamoureux.
The term “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” means “the whole world is one family.”
India previously hosted the CSPOC in 1970-71, 1986, and 2010.
The Standing Committee oversees CSPOC activities and sets the agenda.
CSPOC operates on a two-year cycle, alternating between full conferences and committee meetings.

Importance of Inclusivity and Dialogue

Birla stressed the need for inclusive and transparent parliamentary practices. He believes that dialogue among parliamentary leaders is essential for tackling shared issues. The conference will serve as a platform for enhancing cooperation among member countries. Participants will discuss strategies to address pressing global challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and malnutrition.

Future Implications for Global Cooperation

The 2026 CSPOC will likely influence future parliamentary practices across the Commonwealth. By focusing on technology and social media, the conference aims to modernise parliamentary processes. The insights gained from this event can lead to improved governance and policy-making in member nations.

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