Youth

The Commonwealth’s 54 member countries have a combined population of more than 2 billion, of which more than 60% are under 30 years of age.

The Commonwealth sees young people aged 15-29 as assets to a country’s development who should be empowered to realise their potential.

Young people have a proven capability to lead change, and are a vital and valuable investment for now and the future.

Commonwealth Youth Programme

The Commonwealth Secretariat’s youth development work is delivered through the Commonwealth Youth Programme, which has been supporting member countries for over 40 years.

Engaging and recognising young people

• We support the effective participation of young women and men in development processes and promote their engagement at all levels of decision-making, including with Heads of Government.
• We showcase and celebrate the achievements of young people in driving democracy and development, to demonstrate their capabilities and inspire further action.

Supporting member governments

• We provide technical assistance for national and regional youth policies and create youth development frameworks, guidelines and tools.
• We advocate for increased investments in youth ministries and programmes. 

Professionalising youth work

• We promote the professionalisation of youth work by supporting youth work education and training and setting competency standards.
• We celebrate good practice and advocate for national and international youth worker associations.