India to Host 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth

India is set to play a pivotal role in strengthening parliamentary democracy across the Commonwealth by hosting the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in New Delhi. The prestigious three-day conference will begin on 15 January 2026 and continue till 16 January 2026, bringing together Speakers and Presiding Officers from over 60 Commonwealth countries and semi-autonomous legislatures. The event marks a historic moment for India’s democratic journey, highlighting the country’s growing stature as a leader in parliamentary practices, democratic values and institutional governance.

About the CSPOC Conference

• The Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) is an important international parliamentary forum aimed at promoting knowledge-sharing, mutual learning and cooperation among legislatures of the Commonwealth.
• The primary objective of CSPOC is to strengthen parliamentary institutions and enhance understanding of parliamentary democracy in its diverse forms.
• For the 28th edition, Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, will serve as the Chairperson of the Conference, underscoring India’s leadership role within the Commonwealth parliamentary framework.

Inauguration by the Prime Minister

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will formally inaugurate the Conference on 15 January 2026 at the historic Samvidhan Sadan (formerly Parliament House).
• The inauguration at the Central Hall adds symbolic significance, reflecting India’s constitutional legacy and democratic traditions.
• Apart from the formal inauguration, the Prime Minister will also interact informally with the Speakers and Presiding Officers, fostering goodwill and deeper parliamentary diplomacy among Commonwealth nations.

Key Sessions and Themes

• Several high-level sessions will be held during the Conference, focusing on contemporary challenges and innovations in parliamentary functioning.
• A key theme will be the use of Artificial Intelligence in Parliament, examining how AI can improve legislative efficiency, transparency and research support.
• Other important topics include the impact of social media on parliamentarians, sharing of best practices and innovative ideas, enhancing public understanding of Parliament, and ensuring the security, health and wellbeing of Members of Parliament.
• These discussions reflect evolving democratic needs in the digital age.

Standing Committee Meeting

• On the first day of the event, a meeting of the CSPOC Standing Committee will be held.
• As Chairperson of the 28th CSPOC, Om Birla will preside over this meeting.
• The Standing Committee plays a crucial role in shaping the agenda, continuity and institutional memory of the CSPOC process.

Significance for India and the Commonwealth

• Hosting the 28th CSPOC is significant for India on multiple fronts.
• It reinforces India’s image as the world’s largest democracy and a strong advocate of parliamentary values, inclusivity and dialogue.
• It also strengthens India’s engagement with the Commonwealth, a grouping that spans diverse political systems united by democratic principles.
• For the Commonwealth, the Conference provides a vital platform to address shared governance challenges, adapt to technological change and reinforce democratic resilience.

Handover of CSPOC Chair

• Following the conclusion of the Conference, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will formally hand over the Chair of CSPOC to Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the UK House of Commons.
• This transition symbolizes the rotational and cooperative nature of the CSPOC framework.

Key Summary At Glance

Question

Q. Which country will host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC)?

A. United Kingdom
B. Canada
C. India
D. Australia