https://worldleaders.website/leader-commonwealth-sg.htmlThe public schedule of Shirley Botchwey, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, from official sources via World Leaders Daily.enThu, 27 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000https://thecommonwealth.org/news/sports-ministers-renew-commonwealth-cooperation-through-sportcommonwealth-sg-2026-07-23-Sports ministers renew Commonwealth coopThu, 23 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Sports ministers renew Commonwealth cooperation through sport k.fraser Thu, 07/23/2026 - 10:29 23 July 2026 News Press release Social development Society and young people Sport Image Commonwealth sports ministers agreed to increase cooperation on sport to bolster access to funding and for development and peace at the 12th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting in Glasgow, Scotland, held on the eve of the Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games. The meeting concluded with the adoption of an ambitious outcome statement , reaffirming ministers’ shared commitment to leverage sport to promote inclusion, sustainable development and stronger cooperation across the Commonwealth. Ministers called for dedicated funding, stronger partnerships and capacity-building and advocated for greater investment in community sport and physical activity, recognising its role in improving health, supporting young people, empowering women and girls, creating jobs, driving innovation and supporting sustainable economic growth. In her opening remarks, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, highlighted sport’s power to improve lives. She said: "For too long, sport has been viewed primarily through the lens of competition or entertainment. But throughout the Commonwealth, we know that sport is also an investment in people and a powerful force for healthier communities, greater inclusion, stronger economies and sustainable development. "As we gather in Glasgow, we reaffirm our commitment to harnessing the power of sport to create opportunities for young people, advance gender equality, strengthen social cohesion and build a fairer, more prosperous Commonwealth for future generations. The partnerships and commitments forged through this meeting will help translate that vision into meaningful outcomes for the Commonwealth’s 2.7 billion people." Image Hosted by the Scottish Government, the meeting was chaired by Ms Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Sport . Emphasising the contribution of sport to our communities, Ms Todd said: "The Scottish Government passionately believes in the power of sport and the 12 th Commonwealth Sport Ministers Meeting has affirmed this. Sport not only contributes to a healthier lifestyle, but also improves skills and confidence, addresses social isolation and loneliness, enhances community cohesion, and supports economic growth. "Sport also drives equality outcomes, and I was pleased to make Scotland a signatory to the Brighton + Helsinki Declaration to re-affirm our commitment to improving access for women and girls in sport. I look forward to progressing this work and closing participation gaps so that everyone can realise the benefits of sport and physical activity." The signing of the Brighton Plus Helsinki 2014 Declaration by the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Scottish Government marked an important step forward. The declaration supports action to advance women and girls in sport and improve access to leadership, participation and decision-making at all levels. Its adoption reinforced the Commonwealth’s shared commitment to making sport open, safe and inclusive for everyone. Convened ahead of the 23 rd Commonwealth Games, the meeting considered the future of the Commonwealth Games and how major sporting events can be delivered in more sustainable ways. Ministers described the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games as a key opportunity to rebuild confidence in major sporting events, while also recognising the 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta and the centenary Commonwealth Games in India in 2030 as platforms to support young leaders, strengthen partnerships and bring Commonwealth countries closer together through sport. Image The meeting brought together sports ministers, senior officials and representatives from 56 member countries, as well as observers from across the Commonwealth sport movement, including athletes, sporting bodies, youth representatives, civil society and development partners. The outcomes from the Sports Ministers Meeting are expected to inform discussions at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda in November 2026, the 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta and the centenary Commonwealth Games in India in 2030. Read the outcome statement Watch the opening session of 12CSMM on YouTube See more photos on Flickr 12th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting Media contact Grace Adeniji Communications Officer T: +44 758 763 1429 | Email our media contact Grace Adeniji Country United Kingdomhttps://thecommonwealth.org/news/sri-lankan-prime-minister-says-commonwealth-really-important-forum-tense-worldcommonwealth-sg-2026-05-22-Sri Lankan Prime Minister says CommonweaFri, 22 May 2026 12:00:00 +0000Sri Lankan Prime Minister says Commonwealth is ‘a really important forum’ in a tense world s.abbasi Fri, 05/22/2026 - 16:47 22 May 2026 News Democracy, government and law Image Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Hon Dr Harini Amarasuriya has described the Commonwealth as “a really important forum” for its member countries at a time of growing geopolitical tensions and instability. Following her first official meeting with Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon Shirley Botchwey at Marlborough House on 21 May 2026, the Prime Minister said that institutions, such as the Commonwealth, build trust and promote understanding during periods of global uncertainty. She stressed the importance of institutions such as the Commonwealth at a time when multilateralism is under threat, and international law is increasingly being challenged and disregarded. Prime Minister Amarasuriya said: “This [Commonwealth] is a really important forum where the value of co-operation, the value of collaboration and the value of partnership ... becomes more meaningful.” She added that the Commonwealth’s diverse membership gives it a unique role in bringing countries together and ensuring that different voices are heard. The Prime Minister continued: “The Commonwealth can provide a space for our voices to be heard in a way that highlights some of these values that are being swept aside - values that are really important for countries such as ours.” Impacts of global instability Reflecting on current geopolitical tensions, the Prime Minister highlighted that international conflicts continue to have real consequences far beyond the regions directly affected. She pointed to the effects of the crisis in the Middle East on Sri Lanka, including rising costs for food, fuel and fertiliser. Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said: “The conflict that we are seeing in the world is not something that is good for anyone... As a government, we are trying our best to cushion the impact on our people because we think our people deserve a break. But I think the whole world deserves a break right now.” While expressing support and “affinity” for the Commonwealth, she said: “This is the time to make these kinds of spaces more meaningful... “The Commonwealth could occupy a unique space if it is willing to take up that challenge and make the transition to becoming a really relevant organisation, because this is what this moment demands.” CHOGM 2026 Looking ahead to the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda, the Prime Minister expressed hope that it would be a “historical gathering” for deepening trust and co-operation. She said: “We cannot survive on our own. We need each other. We need to be responsible for each other and [ensure] that the decisions we take affect each other… we need to take responsibility for our actions in a more meaningful way.” Prime Minister Amarasuriya is currently on an official visit to the United Kingdom, where she is undertaking several Commonwealth engagements. Media contact Snober Abbasi Senior Communications Officer Email our media contact Snober Abbasi Country Sri Lankahttps://thecommonwealth.org/news/commonwealth-celebrates-unlocking-opportunities-togethercommonwealth-sg-2026-03-09-The Commonwealth celebrates ‘Unlocking oMon, 09 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000The Commonwealth celebrates ‘Unlocking opportunities together’ d.nariapara Mon, 03/09/2026 - 20:19 09 March 2026 News Press release Commonwealth Day Image Commonwealth Day was celebrated on 9 March, reaffirming the Commonwealth’s desire for peace among all peoples and nations, and the belief that, together, opportunities can be unlocked for everyone, everywhere. This year’s theme, ‘ Unlocking opportunities for a prosperous Commonwealth ,’ focused on how countries and communities can work together to improve people’s lives - from creating jobs to expanding access to education. Across the 56 Commonwealth member countries, the day was marked with many high-profile events and community celebrations, from London in the United Kingdom (UK), to Lilongwe in Malawi and Auckland in New Zealand. Memorial Gates Service In London, Commonwealth Day began with a flag-raising at the House of Commons. It was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Commonwealth Memorial Gates, commemorating more than five million Commonwealth soldiers who served and lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars. This year’s ceremony highlighted the theme ‘Women in War’. Image Commonwealth Day Service The Secretary-General read the Commonwealth Day Affirmation at the multi-faith service of celebration at Westminster Abbey in London. The audience at Westminster Abbey included His Majesty King Charles III, Her Majesty the Queen, foreign ministers, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, High Commissioners, senior government officials, and dignitaries. More than 700 schoolchildren also attended. In total, almost 2,000 people from around the Commonwealth attended the service. Image As part of an ongoing and cherished tradition at the Abbey service, youth from across the Commonwealth carried the flags of 56 member countries, as well as the Commonwealth flag. Most wore their national dress, reflecting the rich diversity of cultures which thrive in the Commonwealth family. Image Commonwealth Day Reception A Commonwealth Day reception at St James’s Palace closed the day’s events. A highlight of the evening was the participation of cricketing legend, Sir Vivian Richards . Sir Viv, widely hailed as one of the greatest batsmen to ever play the game, hails from Antigua and Barbuda, this year’s host for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and he has also been appointed as special envoy for the meeting. At the reception, the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission showcased a new film titled, ‘ We commemorate. Together ,’ sharing the stories of those who lost their lives in war and how the bonds forged through shared sacrifice continue to strengthen cooperation between Commonwealth countries. Ahead of Commonwealth Day, in his role as Head of the Commonwealth, His Majesty King Charles III shared a Commonwealth Day message with the 2.7 billion people of the Commonwealth. In his message, His Majesty The King said: “Our Commonwealth of Nations holds untapped potential for prosperous trade between trusting partners. With nearly two-thirds of our population under the age of thirty, we are a family defined by youth and possibility. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that they inherit not only hope and ambition, but also a world in which they can flourish. “That inheritance depends upon the health of our planet and on the restoration of the natural world on which we depend. Across so many parts of our Commonwealth, climate change is not an abstract or distant threat, but a lived reality.” In her first Commonwealth Day message, Secretary-General Hon Shirley Botchwey shared that even though the temptation to narrow our horizons and turn inward can be powerful, the Commonwealth chooses partnership. She said: “Our diversity is extraordinary. We include small island states on the frontline of climate change and major economies shaping global markets. We are young, entrepreneurial, creative and resilient. And we are connected – through language, education, business, law, culture and enduring human ties. “Those connections are powerful instruments for resilience and progress. They lower barriers, deepen trust and create the conditions in which trade can flourish, investment can flow and innovation can spread. In uncertain times, trust itself becomes a source of strength.” As part of Commonwealth Week, the Commonwealth Investment Network Summit will take place on Tuesday, 10 March, bringing together leaders and investors to explore opportunities for trade and investment in Small Island Developing States. The event will also mark the launch of the Commonwealth Small States Bulletin, highlighting practical interventions that support resilience and sustainable development in Commonwealth small states. View a Flickr photo gallery of Commonwealth Day events About Commonwealth Day Media contact Suné Kitshoff Senior Communications Officer T: +44 7740 450 901 | Email our media contact Suné Kitshoffhttps://thecommonwealth.org/news/Commonwealth-observer-report-Guyana-elections-2025commonwealth-sg-2025-12-08-Guyana elections seen as fair, but incluMon, 08 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000Guyana elections seen as fair, but inclusivity challenges remain - Commonwealth observer report on Guyana’s 2025 elections d.nariapara Mon, 12/08/2025 - 13:20 22 December 2025 News Press release Democracy, government and law Governance and law Image A Commonwealth Observer Group (COG), which observed Guyana’s 1 September 2025 General and Regional Elections has concluded that the elections were largely peaceful with voting, counting, and tabulation professionally managed. However, the Group noted persistent challenges, which affected public confidence and equity, including uneven access to campaign resources, media bias that favoured the governing party, weak regulation of campaign finance, and ongoing partisan divides. The Group, deployed by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey , was led by Mrs. Fekitamoeloa Katoa ‘Utoikamanu, former Foreign Minister of Tonga , and included ten eminent members. Image The Observers visited Guyana from 23 August to 7 September 2025 and observed election operations across seven regions. During their visit members engaged with political parties, electoral authorities, civil society, media, and international partners. The Group in its engagement noted gaps in inclusive participation: youth, persons with disabilities, and Amerindian communities were underrepresented, and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) lacked sex-disaggregated data for polling staff and candidates, which limited transparency in planning for inclusion. The Group, however, commended several reforms, including updates to the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act 2022 and the National Registration (Amendment) Act 2022, as well as GECOM’s decentralisation of counting and simultaneous electronic posting of polling station results. These measures enhanced procedural accuracy. The COG has recommended the establishment of a binding code of conduct for political stakeholders, issue-based campaigning, strengthened media independence, digital resilience against misinformation, and further improvements to polling accessibility and staff training. Image The 2025 elections occurred amid significant economic transformation, political polarisation, and high public interest in the management of newfound offshore oil wealth. Despite challenges, the Group concluded that the elections were conducted in a generally professional and peaceful environment, reflecting Guyana’s continued democratic progress. Releasing the report, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said: "I welcome the COG’s assessment that the September 2025 elections in Guyana were conducted in a generally peaceful and well‑organised manner, demonstrating encouraging improvements. The findings of our observer group also underscore that more remains to be done to secure equity, full inclusivity, and public confidence. "The Commonwealth stands ready to support Guyana in strengthening its electoral framework so that every citizen can fully and fairly exercise their democratic rights." Read the full report Related news Commonwealth to observe Guyana’s 2025 general and regional elections Commonwealth Observer Group begin work in Guyana, ahead of September poll Commonwealth observers deployed to polling stations nationwide, as Guyana general elections gets underway Photos from the Guyana Election 2025 are available to view in our Flickr gallery Media contact Temitope Kalejaiye Public Relations and Engagement Officer T: +447436032707 | Email our media contact Temitope Kalejaiye Country Guyanahttps://thecommonwealth.org/news/antigua-and-barbuda-journey-to-chogm-2026commonwealth-sg-2025-11-04-Antigua and Barbuda ignites CommonwealthTue, 04 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000Antigua and Barbuda ignites Commonwealth journey to CHOGM 2026 with new theme on partnership and prosperity s.law Tue, 11/04/2025 - 16:47 04 November 2025 News Press release Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) Image The Commonwealth Secretariat and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda today unveiled the official theme for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) as 'Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.' The announcement, made jointly by Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Hon Gaston Browne and Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon Shirley Botchwey , took place in St. John's as part of the Secretary-General’s first official visit to the country. Theme reflects unity and shared prosperity The theme, ' Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth ' sets the vision and ambition for CHOGM 2026, which will bring together leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations to strengthen collaboration, drive sustainable investment, and deliver shared prosperity across the Commonwealth. Prime Minister Gaston Browne said the theme reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s enduring belief in unity, progress, and equality among nations: “The theme speaks to a truth we live by in Antigua and Barbuda: when each of us plays our part - in our homes, our communities, and our nations - we all move forward. It echoes our national motto, ‘Each Endeavouring, All Achieving’, reminding us that real progress happens when we work together to build a future where everyone has the chance to thrive. Antigua and Barbuda is proud to open our doors to the Commonwealth in 2026 - to host, to listen, and to lead with purpose.” Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said the theme captures the Commonwealth’s modern mission to turn ambition into action: “This theme captures the spirit of partnership and enterprise that defines the modern Commonwealth. Together, we are building bridges of opportunity between governments and business, between people and ideas, to deliver tangible results for our citizens. As we look to CHOGM 2026, hosted with warmth and pride by Antigua and Barbuda, our focus is clear: to accelerate progress and prosperity through shared investment, innovation and inclusion.” Image The launch ceremony featured the unveiling of the official CHOGM 2026 logo , designed by Ms Chaneil C. Imhoff , winner of the national logo competition. The design incorporates an abstract frigate bird , symbolising freedom, strength, and forward movement, a reflection of Antigua and Barbuda’s role as a connector and host for meaningful global dialogue. The logo’s vibrant colours, drawn from the national flag and the Commonwealth palette, represent unity, renewal, and collaboration. Image A celebration of inclusion and culture Underscoring the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusivity, the launch event brought together a diverse cross-section of Antiguan and Barbudan society, including representatives of the Rastafarian communities, CARICOM youth ambassadors, secondary school students, non-governmental organisations, and the private sector. The programme featured performances by the Hellsgate Steel Orchestra , the Antigua Dance Academy , and the UWI Five Islands Campus Singers. Image Sir Vivian Richards appointed CHOGM 2026 Envoy During the ceremony, the Government also announced that Sir Vivian Richards , Antigua and Barbuda’s cricketing legend and national hero, has been appointed CHOGM 2026 Envoy . Reflecting on his appointment, Sir Vivian said: “To have the entire Commonwealth family gather here in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026 will make it more than a meeting. It will be a statement and a moment of immense pride for the hospitable people of our small islands. We look forward to showcasing that the same spirit which drove us to success on the cricket pitch still runs strong in our people, our culture, and the future we want to collectively build with 56 Commonwealth countries. We are ready to welcome the Commonwealth and its leaders - with passion, and purpose.” Image Momentum towards CHOGM 2026 The Secretary-General’s visit from 3–5 November 2025 marks the beginning of the Commonwealth’s public communications journey toward CHOGM 2026. Her engagements included meetings with national leaders, a site visit with the CHOGM 2026 Task Force, and participation in Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Independence Anniversary Parade . Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs, the Hon. E.P. Chet Greene , said: “Today’s launch represents the culmination of extensive collaboration between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Commonwealth Secretariat. We are proud to take this step forward and to reaffirm our commitment to the principles and values that bind our Commonwealth family together.” About CHOGM 2026 The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 will take place from 1–4 November 2026 in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda , bringing together Heads of Government, Ministers, and representatives from business, civil society, and youth organisations. The summit will focus on shared priorities such as climate resilience, trade, innovation, equality, and sustainable development, uniting nations under the spirit of partnership and prosperity. Watch a recording of the CHOGM 2026 launch event Read the Secretary-General's speech Media contact Rena Gashumba Communications Adviser, Communications Division, Commonwealth Secretariat T: +44 7483 919 968 | E-mail Country Antigua and Barbudahttps://thecommonwealth.org/news/60-years-of-the-commonwealth-secretariatcommonwealth-sg-2025-06-24-60 years of the Commonwealth SecretariatTue, 24 Jun 2025 12:00:00 +000060 years of the Commonwealth Secretariat: A legacy of unity, vision and progress s.law Tue, 06/24/2025 - 19:57 25 June 2025 News Commonwealth Secretariat Image Celebrating 60 years of the Commonwealth Secretariat: Championing unity, equality, and progress across member countries since 1965. By Professor Luis Franceschi, Commonwealth Assistant Secretary-General A vision rooted in equality and co–operation As we mark the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat, I write with deep gratitude and conviction—not just as Assistant Secretary‑General, but as the guardian of a transformative legacy shaped by remarkable leaders, who laid the foundations for this institution. Their vision, of a modern, equal, and multiracial Commonwealth, was later enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter , which affirms the organisation’s shared commitment to democracy, human rights, sustainable development, and the rule of law. These principles continue to guide our work and our unity. Among those early visionaries was Ghana’s founding President, Kwame Nkrumah. In 1964, he proposed establishing a permanent Commonwealth Secretariat, arguing that it would help the organisation become “more in tune with the common aspirations of its members.” He envisioned a modern, equal, multiracial Commonwealth that transcended its colonial origins. This was in keeping with his wider Pan-Africanist philosophy, which included the Pan-African Secretariat in Ghana and multiple conferences promoting African liberation and integration. Founders who shaped the Commonwealth Secretariat Nkrumah was not alone. Uganda’s Milton Obote formally submitted the proposal to establish the Secretariat at the 1964 Commonwealth Prime Ministers’ Meeting. Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Eric Williams was also a strong proponent, drawing on regional and international models to advocate for a structured institution that reflected the diversity of the modern Commonwealth. In 1965, the Commonwealth Secretariat was officially established, with Canadian diplomat Arnold Smith appointed as its first Secretary-General. His appointment, and the selection of London’s Marlborough House as the Secretariat’s headquarters, marked critical steps toward institutionalising Commonwealth co-operation. Building an inclusive and democratic organisation The Secretariat’s creation came at a time of rapid transformation, as newly independent countries such as Malawi, Malta, Zambia, The Gambia, and Singapore joined the Commonwealth. These nations were instrumental in reshaping the organisation into a more inclusive and democratic body. Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere would later reflect that the creation of the Secretariat: The establishment of the Commonwealth Secretariat in 1965 emphasised the equality of all members, and gave final discouragement to the lingering sentiment that one member had a right to some predominance over others. It has enabled the Commonwealth to develop along independent lines in accordance with the interest of all its members. Julius Nyerere , President of Tanzania (1973) Since 1965, the Secretariat has been led by seven Secretary-Generals, each contributing to the evolution and impact of the organisation. Arnold Smith of Canada (1965–1975) laid the foundations as the first Secretary-General, establishing the Secretariat’s systems and global role. He was succeeded by Sir Shridath “Sonny” Ramphal of Guyana (1975–1990), who became a leading voice for decolonisation, South–South cooperation and the global fight against apartheid. Chief Emeka Anyaoku of Nigeria (1990–2000) further strengthened the Secretariat’s diplomatic influence, particularly in its support for democratic governance. From 2000 to 2008, Sir Don McKinnon of New Zealand focused on conflict resolution, strengthening election support and amplifying the concerns of small states. He was followed by Kamalesh Sharma of India (2008–2016), who emphasised youth engagement, gender equality and practical support for member states. In 2016, The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC of Dominica and the United Kingdom became the first woman to hold the post, leading on conflict resolution, climate action, legal reform and digital connectivity. Together, these leaders have helped build an institution rooted in democratic values, responsive to its diverse membership and committed to equality, sustainability and peace. Image Carrying the torch forward In 2025, Hon Shirley Botchwey became the seventh Secretary-General and the first African woman in the role, bringing renewed focus on resilience, economic inclusion and international cooperation. Sixty years on, the Secretariat continues to champion the values its founders envisioned. We support 56 member countries on boosting trade and investment, promoting human rights, tackling climate change and strengthening democratic institutions. In an increasingly fragmented world, the Commonwealth remains a force for good, a force for hope, rooted in history but focused on the future. We remain committed to advancing the vision of those visionary leaders – uniting our unique family in service of peace, prosperity and progress for all. Related news Inaugural address from the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchweyhttps://thecommonwealth.org/news/new-secretary-general-shirley-botchwey-pledges-to-advance-commonwealth-valuescommonwealth-sg-2025-04-02-New Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey pWed, 02 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000New Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey pledges to advance Commonwealth values in a divided world s.abbasi Wed, 04/02/2025 - 08:47 02 April 2025 News Press release Secretary-General Image Hon Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, former Ghanaian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, assumed office as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth yesterday, pledging to advance the values of the Commonwealth Charter at a time of growing global tensions and shifting alliances. Botchwey succeeds Patricia Scotland, whose nine-year term ended in March. She is the first African woman – the second African overall – to lead the association of 56 countries, which make up a third of the world’s population and more than a quarter of the United Nations membership. Speaking at the Commonwealth Secretariat’s headquarters in London on 1 April 2025, the Secretary-General acknowledged the scale of the challenges confronting the world. She said: “The world we woke up to today is unlike any we have seen in our lifetimes. The consequences of lower economic growth, increased defence expenditures, and a frayed multilateralism will affect our pockets directly, increase unemployment and poverty, reduce social protection and weaken our resilience to shocks. “The value of our Commonwealth stands in bold relief, in a time like this. For over 75 years, the Commonwealth has been a unique and powerful force for good. Now we must seize the moment to realise the transformation our societies seek.” The Secretary-General highlighted the power of Commonwealth unity in uncertain times. “The challenges we face are real and serious,” she said, “but together, we are more than equal to them.” Drawing on Commonwealth values, Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey added: “Sustained by the values that bind us - democracy, good governance, peace, human rights, and equal opportunity - we will build a future in which dignity, opportunity, and prosperity are within reach for all.” A Commonwealth built on all talents The Secretary-General outlined three strategic priorities for her leadership, calling them the foundation for a “Commonwealth built on all talents”. First, she pledged to equip women and young people with the skills, tools and opportunities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Second, the Secretary-General vowed to revitalise trade, investment and connectivity across the Commonwealth, describing it as a pathway to industrial development, productivity and inclusive growth. No country, she stressed, should be left behind, regardless of its size or income level. Third, calling climate change “the greatest challenge of our time,” she pledged to mobilise stronger action and advocate for reforms of the international financial system to help small and other vulnerable Commonwealth states access the support they need. The Secretary-General also committed to accelerating the Commonwealth’s modernisation by delivering faster and smarter partnerships to meet the needs of all its people. Reflecting on her own historic journey, she said: “It is a great honour to be the first African woman to serve as Secretary-General. No matter where in the Commonwealth you come from, this path is open to you.” The Secretary-General concluded her address with a message of shared resolve, adding: “Let’s move forward with purpose, with courage, and with an unshakable commitment to a Commonwealth that truly thrives together.” Born in Accra, Shirley Botchwey was appointed by leaders at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa on 25 October 2024. Follow updates from Secretary-General Hon Shirley Botchwey on X and Facebook . Read Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey’s profile Follow Secretary-General on social media Secretary-General on X Secretary-General on Facebook Secretary-General photos Media contact Snober Abbasi , Senior Communications Officer, Communications Division, Commonwealth Secretariat E-mail Country Ghanahttps://thecommonwealth.org/events/commonwealth-day-2025commonwealth-sg-2025-02-17-Commonwealth Day 2025Mon, 17 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000Commonwealth Day 2025 k.fraser Mon, 02/17/2025 - 10:11 Commonwealth Day 2025 will be celebrated across the Commonwealth on Monday 10 March with events and activities taking place throughout March, including civic and faith gatherings, school assemblies, debates, flag-raising ceremonies and cultural celebrations. Commonwealth Day is an annual celebration observed by millions across the Commonwealth in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Americas, the Pacific and Europe. Commonwealth Day Event 2025-03-10T09:00:00 - 2025-03-10T17:00:00https://thecommonwealth.org/news/submission-deadline-commonwealth-peace-prize-extended-until-january-2025commonwealth-sg-2024-12-19-Submission deadline for Commonwealth PeaThu, 19 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000Submission deadline for Commonwealth Peace Prize extended until January 2025 M.Muchiri Thu, 12/19/2024 - 16:27 19 December 2024 News Commonwealth Secretariat Image 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 Ijeoma Onyeator Communications Officer, Communications Division, Commonwealth Secretariat E-mailhttps://thecommonwealth.org/news/chogm2024/day6-highlightscommonwealth-sg-2024-10-26-CHOGM 2024: Day 6 highlightsSat, 26 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0000CHOGM 2024: Day 6 highlights r.fulton Sat, 10/26/2024 - 16:04 27 October 2024 News Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) Image Outgoing Secretary-General the Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland KC (right), congratulated her successor, the Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, currently Ghana's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, following her selection by Heads of Government. In case you missed it On the final day of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, leaders met at the Closing Executive Session. The meeting reviewed progress on key mandates from CHOGM 2022 and set a shared course for the future of the Commonwealth. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to tackling global economic, environmental and security challenges, while exploring ways to enhance resilience, sustainable trade and inclusive growth and emphasising the empowerment of youth and women. Their commitments are set out in the key documents listed below. Heads of Government announced the selection of the Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, currently Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana, as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. Read Ms Botchwey's statement to the media . It was also announced that Antigua and Barbuda will host the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. The Commonwealth family will gather there again in 2026. Image Publications Leaders' Statement and Samoa Communiqué Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration Commonwealth Principles on Freedom of Expression and the Role of the Media Stories Survivor's voices for a cancer-free Commonwealth (Guardian, Nigeria) A Paralympian levels the playing field for an all-inclusive Commonwealth (International Platform on Sport and Development) Statement Media Statement By Hon. Shirley Botchwey, Commonwealth Secretary-General elect Press releases Children take centre stage at CHOGM in historic first Commonwealth nations adopt pivotal ocean declaration in Samoa Incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Announced CHOGM 2024: Samoa Communiqué, Leaders' Statement and Declarations on 'One Resilient Common Future' CHOGM home CHOGM news Stories of resilience Follow on social: #CHOGM2024 WhatsApp Photos on flickr