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The Commonwealth - "A Growing Force for Good in the World"
The Commonwealth is a voluntary association among 56 independent countries, that promote commonwealth values: DEMOCRACY; HUMAN RIGHTS; AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, aided by more than 80 Commonwealth organizations.
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Any country that promotes Commonwealth values can join The Commonwealth. (In 2022, 2 additional Francophonie countries joined.)
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Our combined population of 2.6 billion is a third of the global population.
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The Commonwealth combined GDP is almost CDN$17 trillion. Bilateral costs for trading partners in Commonwealth countries are on average 19 per cent less than between those in non-member countries.
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Half of the top 20 global emerging cities are in the Commonwealth.
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Seven of the top 10 countries in the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, which measures rule of law, human rights, participation, human development and sustainable economic opportunity, are Commonwealth members.
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Global Gender Gap Index, 2024: Rwanda and New Zealand are among the six countries worldwide to have achieved gender parity in parliament; 7 out of 10 girls in the Commonwealth, attend secondary school; and the pan-Commonwealth average for female labour force participation is 53.89 per cent. New Zealand and Namibia rank among the top 8 in the World in gender equality.
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Youth Development Index 2023: Singapore ranks number 1 in the world, and 9 other Commonwealth countries rank in the top 51 in the world.
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Since 1991, 12 Commonwealth member countries have moved to multi-party democracy from military or one-party rule.
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The Commonwealth: A Force for Good in the World. In today's complex global landscape, where challenges such as climate change and autocracy threaten progress and equality, organizations like The Commonwealth stand out as a beacon of hope and progress. The Commonwealth, an association of 56 member states working together to promote democracy, human rights, and sustainable development, plays a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future for all. Upholding Democracy and Human Rights Democracy is not just a system of governance but a fundamental cornerstone of a free and fair society. The Commonwealth believes in empowering communities through democratic processes, ensuring that every voice is heard and every vote counts. By promoting democratic principles and institutions, The Commonwealth fosters political stability, accountable governance, and social cohesion. Human rights form the bedrock of a just and equitable society. The Commonwealth is unwavering in its commitment to upholding and protecting the fundamental rights and freedoms of all individuals. Through advocacy, policy development, and capacity-building initiatives, The Commonwealth ensures that human rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled across member states. Advancing Sustainable Development As the world grapples with the urgent challenge of climate change, sustainable development has never been more critical. The Commonwealth recognizes the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic issues and advocates for sustainable development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Through innovative projects and collaborations, The Commonwealth drives sustainable development initiatives that empower communities, protect ecosystems, and promote green solutions. By harnessing the power of technology, innovation, and partnership, The Commonwealth is at the forefront of shaping a sustainable and resilient future for all. A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation One of the unique strengths of The Commonwealth lies in its ability to bring together diverse voices, perspectives, and expertise. By serving as a platform for collaboration, dialogue, and knowledge exchange, The Commonwealth catalyzes innovative solutions to global challenges that transcend borders and boundaries. Youth engagement is a vital aspect of The Commonwealth's work, recognizing the importance of amplifying the voices and perspectives of young people in shaping the future. By empowering youth through leadership opportunities, skills development, and mentorship programs, The Commonwealth ensures that the next generation is equipped to drive positive change and innovation. In a world marked by uncertainty and division, The Commonwealth stands out as a force for good, promoting unity, solidarity, and progress. By championing democracy, human rights, and sustainable development, The Commonwealth paves the way for a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world for all. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, let us draw inspiration from the values and vision of The Commonwealth. Together, we can build a future where democracy thrives, human rights are upheld, and sustainable development is a reality for all. Join us in celebrating the transformative impact of The Commonwealth and together, let us create a brighter tomorrow. Remember, in the face of adversity and uncertainty, unity and collaboration are our most powerful tools. Let us stand together, guided by the principles of democracy, human rights, and sustainable development, and build a world where everyone can flourish and thrive. Let's shape a brighter future, together!
