On March 11, an event of monumental significance will unfold as 2.5 billion individuals globally celebrate the Commonwealth’s unity. Commemorating 75 years since the London Declaration, I will participate in a service at Westminster Abbey, embracing the diverse nations, faiths, and communities of our Commonwealth family.
As a former Prime Minister, I had the privilege of witnessing the Commonwealth adopt its groundbreaking Charter, encapsulating our fundamental values and objectives in a unified document for the first time in history.
Now, serving as the Foreign Secretary, I am committed to fostering partnerships within our family of nations to honor these values and achieve our collective goals. I take pride in the collaborative efforts of Commonwealth members in various sectors, such as upholding the rule of law and environmental conservation. Our shared bonds and rich diversity not only strengthen us but also position us as a formidable and influential entity globally, enabling our citizens to reap the benefits of our alliance in their everyday lives.
The economic advantages are evident, with trade costs between Commonwealth members being over 20% lower compared to non-member trades.
Significant progress has been made in empowering women and girls, with 4000 female-owned businesses across the Commonwealth gaining enhanced competitiveness.
Our commitment to promoting shared values is strong. We stood united with Guyana against external threats and have consistently monitored numerous elections post the Charter’s inception.
The unity within our Commonwealth family becomes increasingly vital as we confront global challenges, particularly for our small island members whose vulnerabilities to climate change are recognized and addressed in our Charter.
In times of adversity, just like families, our Commonwealth nations rally together. The forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, a historic first for a Pacific island nation, coupled with the UN Small Island Developing States Conference in Antigua and Barbuda, symbolizes our ongoing commitment to these vulnerable states.
These nations are proactively combating climate change, with initiatives like Papua New Guinea’s forest conservation and the collective effort to safeguard 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030.
The UK is intensifying its support, doubling international climate finance and contributing significantly to the Green Climate Fund, facilitating these nations’ battle against climate change.
Despite their minimal carbon footprint yet high vulnerability to climate change, these states face challenges in accessing international funds. Addressing this discrepancy is a priority for me, aiming to streamline the acquisition of green finance for impactful projects.
The Commonwealth hub has already facilitated over $310 million in climate finance for our small island members since 2016. With the collective strength and commitment of the Commonwealth, we can amplify this support significantly.
The UK, as a major contributor to global development funds, is dedicated to expanding the financial resources available to developing states, in collaboration with multilateral banks and institutions.
Every Commonwealth member has a role to play, whether as donors or by sharing expertise in financial acquisition and utilization.
The upcoming gathering in Samoa is an opportunity to demonstrate the true essence of the Commonwealth: an effective association, a unique network, and a steadfast support system, epitomizing the familial bond that defines us.
The author holds the position of United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with this article being furnished by the British High Commission in Nairobi.
