Working together for prosperity, democracy and peace

The Commonwealth Charter expresses the commitment of member countries to the development of free and democratic societies and the promotion of peace and prosperity to improve the lives of all Commonwealth citizens.

Commonwealth countries back new strategic plan for shared prosperity

High commissioners, representing the 56 Commonwealth countries, have approved a five-year strategic plan for the Commonwealth Secretariat to deliver focused support for the 2.7 billion people it serves.

Read more

Image
people sat in meeting room

Featured news

Image
Group photo of 2025 Commonwealth Youth Award winners with their trophies

2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards open for nominations

Organised and delivered by the Commonwealth Youth Programme, the awards recognise and celebrate young people (aged 15 – 29) in the Commonwealth who are spearheading impactful sustainable development work in their communities.

Read more

Image
Commonwealth leaders at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

2025 Commonwealth Year of Innovative, Resilient and Sustainable Debt

Through high-level dialogues, technical assistance and global advocacy, the Commonwealth will bring together member states, institutions and experts to drive innovation in debt reform — and ensure that debt works for development, not against it.

Read more

Home to 2.7 billion people

The Commonwealth is home to 2.7 billion people, and includes both advanced economies and developing countries. 33 of our members are small states, including many island nations.

Find out more

Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey

Secretary-General
Shirley Botchwey is the 7th Commonwealth Secretary-General.
 

Group photo of Her Majesty The Queen with speakers at an event on ending violence against women and girls at CHOGM 2022 in Rwanda

Events
We host regular events, webinars and conferences on behalf of our member countries.

Barefootlaw centre and bicycle

Member organisations
We have a network of over 90 civil, cultural, intergovernmental and professional organisations.

Our work


Subscribe to our newsletter

Commonwealth Matters is sent monthly and features latest news ranging from democracy and climate change to trade and sustainable development.

Image
flags