Celebrate Commonwealth Day

Commonwealth Day is celebrated across the Commonwealth by young people, schools, communities and civil society organisations on the second Monday in March every year.

It provides an opportunity to promote understanding on global issues, international co-operation and the work of Commonwealth organisations.

The day is marked by a range of activities, including a multi-faith Observance at Westminster Abbey in London, United Kingdom. Each year a theme is chosen for Commonwealth Day.

A Young Commonwealth

The theme for 2015 is ‘A Young Commonwealth’.

“A Young Commonwealth recognises the capacity, contribution and potential of young people, who play a vital role at the heart of sustainable development and democracy,” said Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma, announcing the theme.

“The Commonwealth is also a family of dynamic countries at the forefront of innovation, growth and contributing global value. As a diverse and increasingly connected global network, we bring fresh perspectives and new ideas.”

About Commonwealth countries

Fifty-three countries are members of the Commonwealth. Our countries span Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe and the Pacific and are diverse – they are amongst the world’s largest, smallest, richest and poorest countries.

Thirty-one of our members are classified as small states – countries with a population size of 1.5 million people or less and larger member states that share similar characteristics with them.

All members subscribe to the Commonwealth’s values and principles outlined in The Commonwealth Charter.

Leaders of member countries shape Commonwealth policies and priorities. Every two years, they meet to discuss issues affecting the Commonwealth and the wider world at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

All members have an equal say – regardless of size or economic stature. This ensures even the smallest member countries have a voice in shaping the Commonwealth.

Find out more at The Commonwealth