12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum 2026 in New Delhi
Key points
Why in the News?
The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum was held on 26–27 October 2026 at the historic Samvidhan Sadan in the Parliament House Complex, New Delhi. The forum brought together parliamentary leaders and delegations from BRICS member and partner countries to discuss parliamentary cooperation, people-centric development and global challenges.
The forum was inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also interacted with parliamentary delegations from BRICS countries.
Key Highlights
Event: 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum
Venue: Samvidhan Sadan, Parliament House Complex, New Delhi
Dates: 26–27 October 2026
Host country: India
Chairmanship: India
Inaugurated by: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
Prime Minister: Narendra Modi
Theme: “Fostering Parliaments for People-Centric Development”
Main focus: Parliamentary cooperation, democratic institutions, innovation, global governance and sustainable development
Outcome: Adoption of a joint declaration
What Is the BRICS Parliamentary Forum?
The BRICS Parliamentary Forum is a platform for parliamentary representatives of BRICS countries to exchange views, strengthen cooperation and discuss shared international challenges.
It provides an opportunity for lawmakers to discuss the role of parliaments in democratic governance, sustainable development, technological innovation and international cooperation.
The forum complements wider BRICS cooperation by promoting dialogue among parliamentary institutions and encouraging the exchange of legislative experience and best practices.
Major Themes Discussed
The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum focused on four broad areas:
1. Resilience
Strengthening parliamentary institutions so that they remain effective, accountable and capable of responding to emerging challenges.
2. Innovation
Promoting human-centred innovation in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, including their responsible use in parliamentary functioning.
3. Cooperation
Encouraging parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation to support a more representative system of global governance.
4. Sustainability
Promoting sustainable and inclusive development while balancing economic progress with environmental protection.
The discussions also highlighted youth empowerment, democratic values, mutual trust and the importance of giving the Global South a stronger voice in international affairs.
Joint Declaration of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum
On 27 October 2026, the forum issued a joint declaration under the theme “Fostering Parliaments for People-Centric Development.”
The declaration reaffirmed the importance of parliamentary cooperation among BRICS members and partner countries. It also emphasised inclusive development, mutual benefit and collaboration in areas of shared interest.
The declaration reflected a common commitment to strengthening parliamentary engagement and addressing global challenges through dialogue and cooperation.
What Is BRICS?
BRICS is a grouping of major emerging economies that provides a platform for cooperation on economic, political, developmental and international issues.
The grouping's name originated from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It has subsequently expanded to include additional members.
The BRICS Parliamentary Forum supports cooperation among the legislative institutions of participating countries.
BRICS Member Countries
The 11 member countries identified in the official joint declaration for the 2026 forum were:
Brazil
Russia
India
China
South Africa
Egypt
Ethiopia
Indonesia
Iran
United Arab Emirates
Saudi Arabia
Partner countries also participated in the forum. The joint declaration recognised their contribution to inter-parliamentary cooperation.
Why Is the Forum Important?
The forum is significant for several reasons:
Parliamentary diplomacy: It creates opportunities for dialogue between lawmakers from different countries.
Democratic governance: It encourages discussion on accountability, transparency and effective parliamentary institutions.
Global governance: It supports dialogue on making international institutions more representative.
Technology: It provides a platform to discuss the responsible use of artificial intelligence and digital tools.
Sustainable development: It encourages cooperation on inclusive growth and environmental responsibility.
Global South: It offers participating countries an opportunity to discuss shared development priorities and international concerns.
Important Facts for Competitive Exams
Forum: 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum
Dates: 26–27 October 2026
Venue: Samvidhan Sadan, New Delhi
Host: India
Inaugurated by: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
Theme: Fostering Parliaments for People-Centric Development
Four focus areas: Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability
Outcome: Joint declaration adopted on 27 October 2026
Main purpose: Strengthening parliamentary cooperation and people-centric development
Conclusion
The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi highlighted the role of parliamentary institutions in promoting people-centric development, democratic governance, technological innovation and international cooperation. The joint declaration reinforced the importance of dialogue between BRICS members and partner countries in addressing shared global challenges.
