The announcement of the first-ever Commonwealth Peace Prize has led to an overwhelming response, and eligible entrants now have until 17 January 2025 to submit nominations for the inaugural award.
The prize is a part of the Faith in the Commonwealth Initiative, a partnership launched in 2017 with the Khalili Foundation to amplify the efforts of young people - in collaboration with older people - to promote peace and sustain harmony across the Commonwealth's diverse cultural, indigenous, and religious groups.
Announcing the extension at a briefing of High Commissioners and Commonwealth Accredited Organisations in London on 6 December 2024, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, underscored the role of peace in achieving fair, just and peaceful societies. She said:
“Cultivating a culture of peace lies at the heart of the Commonwealth Charter. Over a decade ago, our member states affirmed their shared conviction that peace, security, respect, and understanding—quintessential Commonwealth values—are essential to the progress and prosperity we all seek. The Commonwealth Peace Prize embodies these ideals.
She continued:
“I encourage you, our member states and Commonwealth Accredited Organisations, to embrace this opportunity to nominate distinguished individuals whose efforts have built bridges across divides, promoted understanding, and helped communities flourish in unity and harmony.”
Recognising trailblazing peacebuilders
The prize, which will be awarded every three years, is part of a series of initiatives to reward long-serving peacebuilders who have harnessed the power of faith to engage in positive dialogue, resolve conflicts, and serve as role models for young people.
The Founder and Chairman of the Khalili Foundation, Sir David Khalili, encouraged all to see faith as more than a religious concept saying:
“Faith can serve as a powerful peacebuilder. We are delighted to partner with the Commonwealth to conceive, fund and deliver this milestone Commonwealth Peace Prize. We hope it will inspire people across the Commonwealth and beyond to employ faith as an influencer of peace and harmony.”
The Commonwealth Peace Prize was launched on the International Day of Peace 2024 and aims to recognise distinguished peacebuilders with a strong track record of faith-inspired engagement in conflict resolution and creating sustainable peace in the Commonwealth.
Next steps
- Nominations close on 17 January 2025.
- Contact your High Commission in London or a Commonwealth Accredited Organisation to submit an official nomination on your behalf. Ensure your nomination includes an official letter of recommendation and an impact biography.
- The Secretary-General will announce the winner at a special ceremony during Commonwealth Week in March 2025.
- The winner will be presented with the award and a financial award of £50,000 to be used to continue their important work.
Learn more about the Commonwealth Peace Prize
Media contact
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Ijeoma Onyeator Communications Officer, Communications Division, Commonwealth Secretariat
