The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum commenced in New Delhi on Monday the 26th of October 2026, bringing together lawmakers from member and partner nations to discuss global challenges, democratic governance, technological transformation and international cooperation amid an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment.
Opening the forum, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged BRICS countries to deepen parliamentary engagement and work collectively toward people-centric development, sustainable growth and global peace.
He stressed that legislatures have an important responsibility in strengthening international understanding and fostering cooperative solutions to common challenges facing nations today.
Highlighting rising global instability, Birla pointed to conflicts, economic uncertainties, trade-related tensions, terrorism and climate concerns as issues that increasingly transcend national borders.
He emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential tools for addressing these challenges and maintaining international stability.
“Parliaments represent the voice and aspirations of people and can play a key role in building trust, reducing tensions and promoting constructive engagement among nations,” he told delegates attending the forum.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with parliamentary representatives from BRICS countries on the sidelines of the forum. Discussions covered a wide range of contemporary global and developmental issues, reflecting the expanding role of parliamentary diplomacy within the BRICS framework.
The first plenary session examined the role of parliaments in strengthening institutional resilience and democratic governance.
Participating delegates exchanged views on improving legislative cooperation, sharing best practices and enhancing the capacity of institutions to respond to emerging global challenges.
The discussions underscored the importance of robust democratic institutions in ensuring stability, accountability and effective governance during times of rapid political, economic and technological change.
A major focus of the second plenary session was the growing influence of artificial intelligence and digital technologies on society and governance.
Addressing delegates, Birla said technological progress must remain centred on human welfare and inclusive development.
He noted that while countries are embracing AI-driven transformation, policymakers and lawmakers must ensure innovation remains responsible, accessible and beneficial to all sections of society.
He stressed that parliaments have a critical role in shaping regulatory frameworks that promote digital inclusion, safeguard public interests and encourage ethical technological advancement.
On the sidelines of the forum, Birla held separate bilateral discussions with senior parliamentary leaders from the United Arab Emirates, China and Iran, focusing on strengthening institutional ties and expanding cooperation between legislative bodies.
The BRICS Parliamentary Forum is expected to provide an important platform for member and partner countries to exchange views on governance, development, emerging technologies and global cooperation while reinforcing the bloc’s commitment to a more inclusive and multipolar international order.
