Strengthening Democracy: Insights from the 28th CSPOC Conference

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in democratic institutions during the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC). The event concluded with discussions on evolving parliamentary roles amid technological changes and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in parliaments.

At the conclusion of the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC), Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla highlighted the need for transparency, inclusivity, and accountability to maintain the strength and relevance of democratic institutions.

Birla emphasized that the primary duty of presiding officers is adapting democratic institutions to meet contemporary needs while staying true to constitutional values. He argued that parliaments must effectively respond to citizen expectations, facilitating debates that yield significant solutions.

He also handed over the chairmanship of the 29th CSPOC to Lindsay Hoyle from the UK, marking a significant milestone in Commonwealth parliamentary cooperation. The conference featured discussions on AI's role in parliaments, social media impacts, and citizen engagement, highlighting the evolving responsibilities of presiding officers amid rapid technological change.

(With inputs from agencies.)