Commonwealth Matters - July 2025
The Commonwealth
The Commonwealth supports development, democracy & peace. We are a voice for small states & a champion for young people.
Forging strategic partnerships across the Commonwealth will make prosperity possible
Changes in the global context present an opportunity for the Commonwealth to rise to the challenge and do more for its member countries, but to do so it is inviting partners, like the Commonwealth Accredited Organisations, to walk the journey with them.
The Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, met with the accredited organisations to strengthen partnerships, welcome new members and share her renewed vision for a more responsive, purpose-driven Commonwealth.
"A global citizen" - Sir Shridath Ramphal celebrated for his extraordinary legacy
Diplomats, colleagues and family gathered for the 5th Patsy Robertson Memorial Lecture to honour the legacy of Sir Shridath ‘Sonny’ Ramphal – our second Secretary-General and a champion of small states and justice.
Tongan government branches come together for Commonwealth dialogue on separation of powers
A Commonwealth Latimer House Dialogue was held in Tonga to help strengthen how the country’s judicial, executive and legislative branches work together in service of the nation.
Progress in key areas would benefit Trinidad and Tobago democracy, says Commonwealth's final election report
The Commonwealth Observer Group's final report on Trinidad and Tobago's Parliamentary Elections has identified how democratic processes can be further consolidated, ensuring all citizens have a voice in shaping their future.
From climate crisis to building economic resilience across the Commonwealth
A roundtable discussion during London Climate Week, hosted by the Commonwealth Secretariat and auctusESG, considered how countries can better prepare for climate shocks.
Unlocking growth: Why women in business are vital for the future of the Commonwealth
Across the Commonwealth, women entrepreneurs are sparking meaningful change. From the bustling markets of Cameroon to the co-working spaces of Fiji and the tech labs of Canada, they are reshaping economies, lifting communities, and proving that inclusive growth isn’t just a slogan, it’s a necessity.
The young Nigerian innovator lighting up and powering communities
When Stanley Anigbogu heard his name announced as the 2025 Commonwealth Young Person of the Year in March 2025, he could hardly believe it. He had not expected to win, especially among a pool of brilliant nominees from across the globe.
Gabon restored to full membership within the Commonwealth
Ministers at the 69th Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group agreed to lift the partial suspension of Gabon's membership of the Commonwealth.
Blog: Why the world needs healthy mangroves
Among the 56 Commonwealth countries, 41 of the member countries host mangroves, accounting for one-third of all global mangroves. Mangrove forests are prolific ecosystems located where land and sea meet in the tropical and subtropical parts of the world.
Events
Watch reflections from the Commonwealth Charter workshop in Bangladesh
Featured event
Peace Talk Series: Youth mental health, minority rights and the path to peace.
Join us for the second edition of the Commonwealth Faith Festival Peace Talks on 6 August.
Our monthly webinar series, hosted in partnership with the Khalili Foundation and the Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassadors Network, brings together young change makers and established peace builders to exchange ideas, stories and strategies about youth mental health, minority rights and peace building. This session will explore how exclusion, discrimination, poverty and stigma affect the mental well-being of adolescent girls and minority youth, limiting their potential and role in building peaceful societies.
Other Events
Publication highlight
The Commonwealth Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) Toolkit for Africa
Designed specifically for Africa, this toolkit provides a roadmap for establishing and strengthening Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) – essential frontline institutions in our collective cyber defence. It offers hands-on guidance, operational tools and policy templates that will help governments, institutions and technical communities across the region prevent, detect and respond to cyber threats with greater confidence and coordination.
News from our accredited organisations
See the latest news, initiatives and opportunities from Commonwealth Accredited Organisations.
Around the Commonwealth
See the latest news, initiatives and opportunities from our sister organisations and other Commonwealth partners.
Job vacancies
Amazing!
Vice President, National Council of Women, UN Women UK Digital Participant, Commission on the Status of Women, Insight adviser
1wThe Commonwealth focus on climate change is very welcome too.
Africa Lead at W&A Consular World. Founder, The ‘O’ Initiative | Bridging Innovation and Social Impact through Systems Engineering.
1wLove this