India will host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries (CSPOC) in 2026, as announced by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla during the CSPOC Standing Committee Meeting in Guernsey.
About CSPOC:
- Established in: 1969 by Speaker Lucien Lamoureux, Canada.
- History:
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- First initiated to enhance cooperation and share parliamentary practices among Commonwealth nations.
- Operates independently of the Commonwealth Secretariat or Parliamentary Association.
- Canada provides secretariat support for its activities.
- Aim:
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- Foster impartiality and fairness in parliamentary leadership.
- Promote knowledge and understanding of parliamentary democracy in diverse forms.
- Develop and strengthen parliamentary institutions.
- Structure:
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- Two-year cycle: Full membership conference every two years, Standing Committee meeting in the intervening year.
- Chairperson: Rotates based on the host country.
28th CSPOC (2026):
- Host Country: India (New Delhi).
- Focus Areas: Integration of AI and social media in parliamentary processes, fostering inclusivity, and addressing global challenges like climate change and cybercrime.
- Significance:
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- Reflects India’s economic progress and technological advancements in sectors like AI, fintech, and research.
- Highlights India’s cultural heritage alongside its developmental journey.
