The Commonwealth of Nations, or simply the Commonwealth, is an international organization comprising 56 member nations, most of which are former territories of the British Empire. This association promotes core values such as democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. The member states share linguistic and cultural ties, primarily through the English language. The Commonwealth Secretariat manages intergovernmental affairs, while the Commonwealth Foundation fosters cooperation among non-governmental entities.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is a biennial summit that brings together leaders to discuss shared challenges and interests. The 27th CHOGM was hosted in Samoa from October 25-26, 2024, marking a historic event as the first CHOGM held in a Pacific Island nation.
The theme for the 2024 CHOGM was "One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth." This theme emphasized the necessity of fortifying democratic institutions, safeguarding human rights, and addressing the pressing issue of climate change. Particular focus was given to the threats that climate change poses to small island nations, which are at risk of severe challenges due to rising sea levels.
The meeting was chaired by Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa, the Prime Minister of Samoa. A notable aspect of this CHOGM was King Charles III attending his inaugural meeting as Head of the Commonwealth, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. Additionally, the absence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was significant; both leaders opted to attend the BRICS summit in Russia, indicating their strategic partnerships with non-Commonwealth nations.
During the summit, leaders endorsed the Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration, which commits to ocean protection in response to climate change. The declaration outlines strategies to maintain maritime boundaries even if islands become submerged, thereby safeguarding resources such as fishing zones. It also emphasizes restoring marine ecosystems, finalizing a global treaty on plastic pollution, and promoting "blue economies" for sustainable coastal development.
A significant agreement was the establishment of a Climate and Energy Partnership between Australia and the UK, aimed at advancing renewable energy initiatives, particularly in green hydrogen and offshore wind energy. This partnership aligns with the Commonwealth's broader objectives of reducing carbon emissions, targeting net-zero by 2050.
While the UK clarified that slavery reparations were not on the official agenda, the topic was a point of discussion among leaders. A joint statement highlighted the need for "meaningful, truthful, and respectful conversations" regarding the enduring impacts of slavery, especially on women and girls. Leaders acknowledged the shared colonial history of Commonwealth countries and called for dialogues addressing historical injustices.
Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey from Ghana was elected as the new Secretary-General, succeeding Patricia Scotland. Botchwey and other candidates advocated for financial reparations related to colonialism and slavery, reflecting an increased focus on historical justice within the Commonwealth.
The summit reaffirmed the Commonwealth's dedication to environmental protection, democratic governance, and addressing historical injustices. Leaders committed to fostering resilient and inclusive partnerships, emphasizing sustainable development, climate action, and social equity. The collective message underscored that "building a resilient Commonwealth requires confronting shared histories and nurturing partnerships for a sustainable, just future."
Q1. What is the main purpose of the Commonwealth of Nations?
Answer: The Commonwealth of Nations aims to promote democracy, human rights, and sustainable development among its member countries, primarily former British colonies.
Q2. Where was the 2024 CHOGM held?
Answer: The 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) was held in Samoa from October 25-26, marking a notable first for a Pacific Island nation.
Q3. What was a significant topic discussed at the 2024 CHOGM?
Answer: A significant topic was the Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration, which focused on ocean protection amid climate change and promoting sustainable development strategies.
Q4. Who chaired the 2024 CHOGM?
Answer: Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa, the Prime Minister of Samoa, chaired the 2024 CHOGM, guiding discussions on key issues affecting member nations.
Q5. What was the outcome of the discussions on slavery reparations?
Answer: Discussions on slavery reparations emphasized the need for honest conversations about the lasting impacts of slavery and the importance of addressing historical injustices.
Question 1: What is the primary focus of the Commonwealth of Nations?
A) Economic development
B) Promoting democracy and human rights
C) Military alliances
D) Cultural exchange
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which country hosted the 2024 CHOGM?
A) Australia
B) Canada
C) Samoa
D) India
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What key declaration was adopted at the 2024 CHOGM?
A) Climate Change Action Plan
B) Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration
C) Global Plastic Treaty
D) Commonwealth Economic Framework
Correct Answer: B
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