Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) on Thursday at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan in New Delhi. The event, chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, will see participation from 61 Speakers and Presiding Officers representing 42 Commonwealth countries and delegates from four semi-autonomous parliaments worldwide.
India’s role as a hub for parliamentary dialogue and democratic cooperation within the Commonwealth will be highlighted during the conference. Discussions will cover various contemporary parliamentary issues, emphasizing the importance of Speakers and Presiding Officers in upholding strong democratic institutions.
The conference will delve into topics such as the use of artificial intelligence in parliamentary operations, the influence of social media on Members of Parliament, and the challenges and opportunities digital tools bring to democratic governance. Delegates will also explore ways to enhance public understanding of Parliament and promote citizen engagement beyond voting, focusing on inclusive and participatory democracy.
Participants will have the opportunity to share best practices and experiences related to legislative procedures, parliamentary ethics, and institutional integrity. The CSPOC serves as a significant platform within the Commonwealth parliamentary framework, aiming to foster cooperation among member nations’ legislatures. India’s hosting of the 28th edition underscores its dedication to democratic values and parliamentary traditions.
