At a time when the world is confronted with wars, regional conflicts, economic uncertainty, terrorism and climate change, international cooperation must deliver more than diplomatic declarations. Its real worth lies in improving people’s lives. Against this backdrop, the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, held on October 26–27, 2026, at Samvidhan Sadan in New Delhi under India’s chairmanship, offers an important platform to advance people-centric development, democratic dialogue and multilateral cooperation.

The central message is clear: development must be measured not merely by economic growth, technological advancement or expanding trade, but by the dignity, security and opportunities it provides to ordinary citizens. Progress remains incomplete when poverty, hunger, unemployment and inequality persist alongside impressive economic achievements. People’s welfare must remain at the heart of policymaking.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla’s emphasis on parliamentary dialogue, democratic values and public welfare highlights the crucial role of legislatures in shaping a more accountable and inclusive world order. Parliament is not simply a lawmaking institution; it represents public aspirations, raises grievances and holds governments accountable. Dialogue among parliamentarians from different countries can strengthen democratic practices, encourage the exchange of experiences and help identify practical solutions to shared challenges.
The need for such cooperation has become more urgent as technological progress contrasts sharply with geopolitical tensions, economic disparities and growing mistrust among nations. Artificial intelligence, digitalisation and scientific innovation offer immense opportunities, but their benefits must be shared fairly. Technology should empower people, protect their interests and expand opportunities rather than deepen existing inequalities.
The forum’s focus on institutional resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainable development is therefore significant. Strong and accountable institutions are essential for managing crises, while ethical technological advancement must go hand in hand with transparency and human welfare. Similarly, economic growth cannot be sustained at the cost of environmental degradation. Climate change demands coordinated international action, equitable access to resources and the sharing of knowledge and responsibilities.
Another important dimension of BRICS cooperation is the representation of the Global South. Developing countries continue to face challenges involving food security, affordable energy, mounting debt, access to finance and unequal participation in global decision-making. Their concerns deserve greater consideration in international financial institutions, trade negotiations and multilateral forums. BRICS can contribute meaningfully by promoting a more representative and balanced global governance system.
India has an opportunity to strengthen this process through its democratic traditions, diverse society and experience in development. Its role should be to build consensus, encourage dialogue and ensure that cooperation serves the collective interests of participating countries. India’s parliamentary diplomacy can help connect national priorities with broader international concerns, provided that dialogue leads to measurable outcomes.
The aspirations of young people also deserve particular attention. Quality education, employable skills, meaningful jobs and opportunities for innovation are essential to inclusive development. International cooperation can facilitate the exchange of knowledge, technology and successful policy models, helping countries prepare their young populations for a rapidly changing world.
Equally important are collective efforts against terrorism, respect for international law and reforms in global institutions, including the United Nations. Such institutions must become more representative and effective if they are to retain public confidence and respond adequately to contemporary challenges. Peace, meanwhile, must mean more than the absence of armed conflict; it must also ensure human dignity, security, justice and equitable opportunities.
Ultimately, the success of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum will depend on what follows its deliberations. Declarations must translate into effective legislation, accountable institutions and policies that produce tangible improvements in people’s lives. Parliamentary dialogue has value when it influences decisions, addresses inequalities and strengthens public trust.
The world needs responsible leadership and cooperation rooted in a shared commitment to humanity. Under India’s chairmanship, the BRICS Parliamentary Forum provides an opportunity to advance that vision. Its lasting contribution will be measured not by the words spoken in New Delhi, but by its ability to turn dialogue into action, reduce inequalities and make development more inclusive, sustainable and humane.

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