Chairman Om Birla addressing the 28th Commonwealth Conference of Presidents and Chairmen (CSPOC) in Delhi on January 16, 2026. | Photo credit: Special arrangement
Democratic institutions can remain strong and relevant when they are transparent, inclusive, responsive and accountable to the people, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said on Friday (January 16, 2026).
Addressing the 28th Commonwealth Presidents and Presiding Officers Conference (CSPOC), Mr Birla noted that transparency fosters public trust by ensuring openness in decision-making, while inclusiveness ensures that all voices, especially those on the margins, are heard and respected in the democratic process.
Together, these principles maintain the legitimacy of democratic institutions and strengthen the lasting bond between citizen and state, he said.
“Consensus and Disagreement Needed”
Earlier, Mr. Birla noted that modern democracy faces both unprecedented opportunities and complex, multidimensional challenges.
Noting that the real importance of parliaments lies in their ability to respond to the expectations and desires of citizens, he said that the main duty of presidents is to constantly adapt democratic institutions to contemporary needs while remaining anchored in constitutional values.
He stated that both consensus and dissent are strengths of democracy, but they must be expressed within the framework of parliamentary decorum, and in this context the role of the Speaker was identified as crucial for protecting the dignity of the House, ensuring impartiality and strengthening institutional credibility.
Enhanced debate directly contributes to greater transparency, accountability and strengthening public confidence in legislatures, he added.
Parliaments in the age of AI, social media
During the conference, the responsible use of artificial intelligence in parliaments, the impact of social media, citizen engagement after elections and the health and well-being of MPs and parliamentary staff were discussed.
“These reflections have helped presidents gain greater clarity about their evolving roles and responsibilities at a critical moment when democratic traditions intersect with rapid technological change,” Mr. Birla said, adding that technology, inclusion and global partnerships will shape the new world order.
Next conference in Great Britain
During the valedictory session, the Speaker handed over the presidency of the next conference to Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom. The UK will host the next CSPOC in 2028.
Recalling the vision behind the establishment of the CSPOC 56 years ago, Mr Birla said it was created to ensure continuous dialogue between the Commonwealth’s democratic legislatures and to explore new ways to increase parliamentary efficiency and responsiveness. He expressed the belief that the bilateral meetings and informal interactions held during the conference further strengthened the friendship and understanding between the member countries.
Published – 16 Jan 2026 20:38 IST
