Reflecting on the 75th anniversary of the ‘modern’ Commonwealth: Views from Speakers, Members and Youth Parliamentarians around the Commonwealth
Article posted on 22/04/2024. Updated 13/05/2024.
In 2024, we mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the ‘modern’ Commonwealth.
Here, we ask Speakers, Members of Parliament and Youth Parliamentarians ‘What the Commonwealth means to you as it marks its 75th anniversary?’ and ‘What do you think the importance is of the Commonwealth to parliamentary democracy today?’
CPA Africa Region:
Hon. Dr Tulia Ackson, MP is the Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania .
As we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the ‘modern’ Commonwealth, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and exhilaration for the journey that the United Republic of Tanzania, the CPA Africa Region and Commonwealth nations at large, have travelled since 1949 when the ‘modern’ Commonwealth was founded. The Commonwealth represents not just a coalition of nations united by shared values of democracy, human rights, good governance and the rule of law. It is a family that transcends continents including almost 180 Parliaments and Legislatures worldwide through the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.
My own journey, from a humble background to serving as the Speaker of the Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania is illustrative of the transformative power and opportunities offered by the Commonwealth. It is a narrative of overcoming adversity and is testament to what can be achieved when institutions support every girl child and woman towards the realization of their full potential.
Since 1949, the Commonwealth has fostered unity, solidarity and peace among its member states and beyond, thus bridging historical divides and nurturing an environment of inclusivity. The recent application for membership of the Commonwealth from several countries is testimony of the ever-growing relevance and influence of the Commonwealth in the global arena.
Parliaments are at the heart of a functioning democracy. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association has played and continues to play a pivotal role in making our Parliaments and Legislatures effective in carrying out their Constitutional roles of legislation oversight and representation. Over the years, CPA Conferences and Seminars have offered a useful platform for Parliamentarians and parliamentary staff to share their experiences and best practices in the administration of Legislatures across the Commonwealth.
We are celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth when humanity is confronted with a myriad of challenges, ranging from insecurity, intolerance and youth unemployment to poverty and climate change. As we celebrate this landmark milestone, we should strive to make the Commonwealth fit-for-purpose so that it can address the aforementioned challenges while reaffirming our commitment to the principles of the Commonwealth.
Let us move forward with renewed determination and collective action to create a world that is more prosperous, peaceful, equitable and inclusive.
CPA Asia Region:
Mr Danish Ali Bhutto is the Deputy Director at the Parliament of Pakistan and former Commonwealth Youth Parliamentarian (CYP8).
As I reflect on the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth, my decade-long association with the CPA transcends mere membership of my country for me. It's a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of shared history, diverse cultures, a collective commitment to progress, a steadfast belief in the universal principles of human rights and a vital dedication to strengthening parliamentary democracy.
My personal journey within the Commonwealth began as a participant in the 8th Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP) in 2016 in British Columbia, Canada. Representing Pakistan at the CYP ignited a passion for bridging understanding, advocating for inclusivity and upholding the fundamental rights of all within this unique global family.
The CYP paved the way for my participation in the 63rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Dhaka, Bangladesh two years later. Witnessing youth participants alongside seasoned leaders discuss shared challenges, forge collaborative solutions and champion the principles of parliamentary democracy instilled in me a profound sense of the Commonwealth's transformative power. Since then, my continued engagement has deepened my connection to this invaluable platform as this forum continues to empower youth, women and other less represented groups through various initiatives.
The Commonwealth, with its emphasis on democracy, rule of law and respect for individual freedoms, is a bastion of parliamentary principles. By providing a forum for dialogue, capacity-building and knowledge exchange, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association plays a pivotal role in empowering member states to advance both human rights and democratic governance. The CPA's emphasis on the importance of parliamentary democracy lies in its ability to foster shared understanding of best practices, promote transparency and accountability and nurture a new generation of democratic leaders.
Furthermore, initiatives like the CPA Parliamentary Academy make the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association an unmatched space for a thriving parliamentary democracy. Through its innovative training programmes and emphasis on parliamentary best practices, the CPA Parliamentary Academy empowers legislators and aspiring young leaders, providing the tools to build effective, transparent, and accountable institutions that safeguard human rights and are cornerstones of robust democracies.
As we celebrate this milestone, let's reaffirm the CPA's commitment to human rights and youth empowerment within the Commonwealth, and its role in strengthening parliamentary democracies across the globe. I remain optimistic about the Commonwealth's potential to weave a stronger, more inclusive future for all its member states, drawing upon the rich tapestry of shared experiences, aspirations, an unwavering commitment to upholding human dignity, and the enduring ideals of democracy.
CPA Australia Region:
Senator Hon. Sue Lines is the President of the Senate at the Parliament of Australia.
As the Commonwealth marks its 75th anniversary, it's a moment to reflect on the tapestry of cultures, languages and aspirations that weave together its rich mosaic. For me, the Commonwealth embodies the essence of diversity, unity and collaboration on a global scale. We share common values and objectives such as democracy, human rights, good governance and the rule of law.
At its core, the Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal countries, each contributing their unique perspectives and experiences to the collective tapestry. Spanning continents and encompassing both advanced economies and developing nations, the Commonwealth is home to 2.5 billion people, a staggering figure that includes 33 small states, many of which are island nations facing unique challenges.
While the roots of the Commonwealth trace back to the British Empire, its modern incarnation is far more inclusive exemplified by the recent additions of Gabon and Togo in 2022. This evolution reflects a commitment to equality, diversity and shared values that transcend historical boundaries.
The Commonwealth's vision of a mutually respectful, resilient, peaceful and prosperous community resonates deeply with me. It's a vision that acknowledges the complexities of our world while affirming the fundamental humanity and interconnectedness of all its citizens. This year's Commonwealth theme, ‘One Resilient Common Future’, encapsulates the spirit of solidarity and cooperation needed to address the challenges of our time.
Central to the Commonwealth's mission is the well-being of its citizens. Through collaborative efforts, member governments and the broader Commonwealth family work together to advance shared interests globally. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary, it's a reminder of the enduring commitment to supporting each other, especially in times of adversity.
One of the most compelling aspects of the Commonwealth is its focus on the youth. With 1.5 billion young people living within the Commonwealth, it represents a vast reservoir of talent, creativity and potential. This year, as we honour the youth, we recognise their role as catalysts for change and drivers of progress. Their energy, ideas, and aspirations are vital in shaping a brighter future for us all.
As I reflect on the significance of the Commonwealth, I'm struck by its ability to transcend geopolitical divides and foster meaningful connections. It serves as a reminder that, despite our differences, we are bound together by our shared humanity and a collective desire for a better world.
In celebrating 75 years of the Commonwealth, we acknowledge our histories, while renewing our commitment to building a future defined by resilience, unity and prosperity. It's a journey marked by challenges and triumphs, but above all, it's a testament to the power of collaboration in pursuit of a common destiny.
CPA British Islands and Mediterranean Region:
Hon. Juan Watterson, SHK, Speaker of the House of Keys, Parliament of the Isle of Man (Tynwald).
The Commonwealth has a great significance to us as the CPA Isle of Man Branch, as well as me personally. The Isle of Man is certainly one of the smaller Branches in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, with a population of around 85,000. However, we are delighted to have the World’s Oldest Parliament, Tynwald, as well as being the first Parliament to give women (over the age of 21, who owned property) the vote in 1881.
The Commonwealth enables our small Island nation to be part of something bigger. We are one of very few CPA Small Branches to have hosted the annual Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, something which we did in 1984, and are an example how, with many other CPA Small Branches, we punch above our weight in an organisation that contains some of the largest nations on Earth.
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association provides a network within which we learn and lead. Hosting delegations has also been a fantastic way to showcase our unique Parliament, whether that be Tynwald Day, Regional Conferences or bilateral visits from Speakers of Parliament or Public Accounts Committees. We have welcomed visitors from the Falkland Islands and St Helena to Alberta and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, both politicians and parliamentary officials, and such visits are invariably beneficial.
My first experience of the CPA was attending the Commonwealth Youth Parliament as an undergraduate in 2000. Along with our national Youth Parliament, they inspired me in the work of Parliaments and public service more generally. When I was elected at the age of 26 in 2006, the Commonwealth became an essential part of my parliamentary education – attending a Commonwealth Parliamentary Seminar within a year of my election, and attending regional and plenary conferences. The CPA Conferences provide a ‘safe space’ for learning and testing ideas outside of your domestic politics, but also provide a great opportunity to learn about almost 180 other ways of tackling the same problems as you compare notes with other CPA Branches.
The contacts built up provide excellent opportunities for benchmarking, either against the CPA’s Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures, election observations or in looking at public services in government or scrutiny roles.
I have no doubt that my immersion in the CPA has helped me to become a better constituency Member, Parliamentarian, Committee Chair and ultimately twice being elected as Speaker. This is just one Member’s experience, but I am sure it is shared thousands of times around our Commonwealth network. The innumerable interactions created by the CPA help foster the common bonds of friendship, learning and democracy that are at the heart of our organisation.
CPA Canada Region:
Hon. Alexandra Mendès, MP is the Assistant Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons at the Parliament of Canada and CPA Canada Federal Branch Chairperson.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the modern Commonwealth, an international and voluntary association that remains important to parliamentary democracies, such as Canada, to this day. Amongst its many goals, the modern Commonwealth endeavours to reinforce shared democratic values, facilitate cooperation and collaboration, and promote human rights and good governance.
After 75 years of existence, it retains the capacity to regenerate and evolve with the needs and values of its member states’ citizens. The organisation adapts to accommodate new perspectives, values and challenges. The commitment to shared principles, such as democracy and human rights, provides a foundation for the modern Commonwealth to continually renew its relevance and foster collaboration among its members in the pursuit of common goals, and contributes to the modernisation of democracies.
Encompassing a diverse array of member nations spanning various continents, the modern Commonwealth is characterised by a rich tapestry of racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The organisation's commitment to inclusivity and equality is evident in its composition, reflecting the shared and diverse history of its many member states. With a growing membership that includes countries from Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe and Oceania, it serves as a platform where nations of different racial backgrounds collaborate on common goals, fostering mutual understanding and respect. This multiracial nature not only enriches the organisation but also underscores its dedication to promoting unity, diversity and equal representation on the global stage.
While most member states share English as a common language, the modern Commonwealth acknowledges the significance of linguistic diversity by incorporating bilingual or French-speaking members, such as Canada and some nations in Africa. This diversity creates a platform where English and French-speaking members can engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue, share experiences and work collectively towards common objectives.
Human rights are an important goal for both Canada and the modern Commonwealth as the inclusion of all citizens of society makes it possible to build innovative, dynamic and thriving communities in which people flourish. The modern Commonwealth promotes human rights through various mechanisms and initiatives that reflect its commitment to upholding fundamental principles of justice, equality and dignity. Though imperfect, it has been a key player in denouncing racial prejudice and discrimination, promoting democratic rights and advancing women’s economic empowerment and leadership. A recent focus has been the rights for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. Despite the varying progress amongst member states, the modern Commonwealth's commitment to the universality of human rights underscores its evolving role in promoting various rights.
Beyond political and economic considerations, the modern Commonwealth embodies a commitment to shared principles that transcend borders, making it an essential force for fostering unity, inclusivity and progress on the international stage in the 21st century. In an era marked by interconnectedness, its importance is not just historical. Rather the modern Commonwealth continues to provide for collective action and cooperation in addressing the complex issues of our rapidly changing century.
CPA Caribbean, Americas and the Atlantic Region:
Hon. Bridgid Annisette-George is the Speaker of the House of Representatives at the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago.
The Commonwealth stands as an enduring force in the promotion of parliamentary democracy. Rooted in shared historical ties and a commitment to democratic values, the Commonwealth provides a platform for collaboration, recognition of human rights, knowledge exchange, capacity building and the advancement of democratic ideals.
One of the Commonwealth's core strengths lies in its diversity. The association’s 56-nation strong membership spans vast geographical regions and encompasses large and small nations with varying cultural identities and levels of economic development. The Commonwealth fosters an environment where democratic principles are adapted and strengthened within diverse contexts. In respecting the strengths of diversity within the Commonwealth family, the Commonwealth also promotes inclusion as an objective at the societal level-inclusion of all citizens within its Member countries spanning youth, women, indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities recognising the value of all constituents and their respective roles in achieving strong, vibrant and just societies.
The Commonwealth Charter, the organisation's guiding document, enshrines a commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and the separation of powers. This shared framework supports member states in building resilient democratic institutions, ensuring peaceful transitions of power and upholding the rights of all citizens.
The Commonwealth Latimer House Principles seek to provide a working framework for the operation of the doctrine of the separation of powers between the three arms of Government, fostering a complementary and constructive relationship between the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary.
As Chair of one of the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago’s ever-improving financial oversight Committees, I can attest to the relevance of the Commonwealth Latimer House Principles on Oversight of Government, according to which
“the establishment of scrutiny bodies and mechanisms to oversee Government enhances public confidence in the integrity and acceptability of government’s activities”.
Particularly, Principle 6(2) – Accountability of the Executive to Parliament which emphasises the importance of having appropriately structured and adequately resourced Public Accounts Committees working closely with the Auditor General. A great deal of progress has been made in Trinidad and Tobago in this regard since the establishment of our Public Accounts Committee and Auditor General’s Department in our 1976 Republican Constitution.
In respecting the strengths of diversity within the Commonwealth family, the Commonwealth also promotes inclusion as an objective at the societal level; inclusion of all citizens within its member countries spanning youth, women, indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities, recognising the value of all constituents and their respective roles in achieving strong, vibrant, equitable and just societies.
As a female Parliamentarian, I can also confidently affirm the value of Commonwealth Latimer House Principle 4 on Women in Parliament. Reflecting the contents of this Principle, women are indeed “elected to Parliament through regular electoral processes” in Trinidad and Tobago.
Currently, in addition to myself as Speaker, both the Leader of the Opposition and the Leader of Government Business in the House of Representatives are women MPs. With one-third (23 out of 73) of our current Parliamentarians being women, there is room for improvement. However, we must acknowledge the progress made thus far towards securing what the Commonwealth Latimer House Principles call “the necessary inclusion of both genders in all aspects of public life”.
In a world facing increasing threats to democracy, the Commonwealth serves as a beacon of hope and a champion of democratic values.
Ms Rashana Jones is a youth campaigner and Barbados Youth Parliament representative.
The Commonwealth at 75: Inspired, Exulting, Free: The Commonwealth has been and continues to be the bedrock of parliamentary democracy and good governance for almost three billion people globally for seventy-five years. I therefore join the international community in extending the highest commendations to the Commonwealth on reaching this great milestone.
It has been five years since I participated in CPA’s 10th Commonwealth Youth Parliament in India and created life-long friendships with young, bright and passionate people. This opportunity has allowed me to have a greater appreciation for the work of the Commonwealth Secretariat and its associations like the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.
Parallel to this, when I sat on the Editorial Advisory Board of the CPA’s Journal, The Parliamentarian, I was given equal opportunity for input and was able to extend invitations to other young people from across the CPA Caribbean, Americas and the Atlantic Region to submit articles to the publication. During this time, I was able to coordinate a series of ‘Commonwealth Youth Voices’ which exemplified the importance of youth engagement in the Commonwealth. This genuine inclusion of young people is commendable and will be critical to the sustainability and vibrancy of this community.
Unequivocally, the Commonwealth is a pillar of peace and multilateralism, which are paramount, especially for small island developing states. The Commonwealth’s Election Observer missions have contributed to the peace, stability, security and legitimacy of countless elections. This work is pivotal in ensuring that the fundamental rights of citizens are not compromised and that elections are free and fair, amidst corruption and other threats to democracy.
As a young citizen of Barbados, the Commonwealth is a beacon of hope for my generation, it is the symbol of peace, equity and inclusion. The Commonwealth is a champion in the fight for gender equality and the rights of the most vulnerable, such as the disabled community. Parliamentary democracy at its core must equally include the voices of women and other marginalised sections of our societies. Moreover, as members of the Commonwealth, we must now look 75 years ahead and envision what parliamentary democracies may look like for future generations in the face of rapid technological advancements and other global threats.
As the Commonwealth community, which is now 75 years strong, we must, in the words of Barbados’ national anthem, ‘upward and onward we shall go, inspired, exulting, free. And greater will our nations grow in strength and unity’. Happy 75th anniversary to the Commonwealth!
CPA Pacific Region:
Rt Hon. Gerry Brownlee, MP is the Speaker of the House of Representatives at the New Zealand Parliament.
The New Zealand Parliament is proud to be one of 180 Parliaments and Legislatures making up the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. 75 years ago, our nation was one of the founding members of the ‘modern’ Commonwealth. While the world looks vastly different than it did when the Commonwealth ‘London’ Declaration was signed in 1949, the support, kinship and collaboration we have enjoyed with our fellow Commonwealth nations has not changed.
We may be a small island nation, but being a part of the Commonwealth has provided New Zealand with the support, experience and knowledge of all our fellow member nations. We have seen this illustrated in recent years, as our Parliament - like many in our ‘family of nations’ - has faced unique and unprecedented challenges including financial crises, pandemics and terror attacks. Throughout it all, being part of the Commonwealth has been invaluable in providing our small country with support to weather these storms.
For New Zealand, being part of the Commonwealth is about reciprocity. As we look to larger nations for knowledge and collaboration, we use our position to support emerging democracies, and promote the role and rights of our diverse community.
New Zealand is one of 13 Parliaments and Legislatures in the wider CPA Pacific Region, and we value working closely with our pacific neighbours. Since 2019, we have enjoyed providing support and technical assistance to Pacific Parliaments through the Tai a Kiwa: Stronger Pacific Parliaments Programme. We are excited that this programme has recently been renewed and extended to 2028.
Here at home, we have an increased focus on promoting youth engagement, including through the Commonwealth Youth Parliament which we will host in September 2024. We also have an active Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians group, which meets regularly and facilitates different activities.
Over the past 75 years, the Commonwealth has played a critical role in developing and maintaining international unity. I look forward to New Zealand’s role in furthering this work and promoting peace and prosperity.
CPA South-East Asia Region:
Hon. Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Johari bin Abdul is the Speaker of the House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat) at the Parliament of Malaysia.
Honouring 75 years of the Commonwealth and Parliament: A Rich Tapestry of Unity and Growth - Seventy-five years ago, in April 1949, the Commonwealth of Nations was formed, marking a big moment for countries working together globally. Now, as the Commonwealth celebrates its 75th anniversary, it's a time to think about its impressive journey of coming together and making progress since it started. The Commonwealth is a special group of 56 Member States, including countries that were once part of the British Empire and some that were not, spread across six continents. These countries are linked by shared values, history and a commitment to democracy, progress and diversity. It was created after World War II and has grown into a dynamic and inclusive community, with countries of different sizes, cultures and levels of development, representing over 2.4 billion people.
At the core of the Commonwealth's beliefs are equality, teamwork and mutual aid among its members, in spite of their economic status or global influence. As we mark this important anniversary, it's crucial to recognise how relevant and resilient this organisation has remained in the face of today's challenges. From COVID-19 to climate change, from social inequality to global tensions, the need for worldwide teamwork and democratic leadership has never been more urgent. Member States come together to discuss common issues through gatherings and networks like the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).
Looking forward, we must consider the lasting importance of the Commonwealth and the key role of parliamentary democracy in ensuring good governance and accountability across member nations. Many Commonwealth countries, including Malaysia, follow the Westminster model of parliamentary democracy inherited from the UK. This model guides how their Legislatures operate, how powers are separated and how fundamental rights are protected.
Parliaments in Commonwealth countries are crucial for upholding democratic values and advancing the interests of their citizens. They are where elected representatives make laws, keeping a check and balance on the government's actions, and represent the diverse voices of their people. Through parliamentary democracy, Commonwealth nations have made strides in social justice, gender equality and inclusive development. Electoral system reforms, stronger parliamentary powers and advancements in technology have made governance more transparent, participatory and effective.
By sticking to democratic norms, encouraging dialogue and consensus-building, and passing laws to tackle global crises like COVID-19 and climate change, Parliaments have shown their resilience and importance in today's interconnected world. Malaysia has also benefited from this democratic empowerment through its involvement with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), where it engages in capacity building, shares best practices, supports democratic reforms, advocates for human rights and promotes parliamentary diplomacy.
As a trusted member of the Commonwealth, Malaysia continues to play a significant role in promoting democratic governance and international cooperation for the greater good. As we look ahead to the next 75 years, we must reaffirm our commitment to the values and principles that unite us as a community of nations. In a time of uncertainty and change, the Commonwealth stands as a symbol of hope and solidarity, offering a platform for cooperation in building a fairer, more peaceful and sustainable world.
In summary, the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth and Parliament is a time for celebration, reflection and renewal. By embracing the spirit of unity, diversity and democracy that defines the Commonwealth, we can honour the progress of the past 75 years and pave the way for a brighter future, grounded in principles of freedom, equality and mutual respect.
Ms Mas Liza Maslan is a Parliamentary Research Officer at the Parliament of Malaysia.
As we celebrate the momentous occasion of the Commonwealth's 75th anniversary, its significance holds a special place in my heart, personally and professionally. It's a testament to the lasting impact of a union built on shared values and a reminder of the power of collaboration and cooperation in achieving common goals.
The Commonwealth represents a vibrant community of nations bound by shared values, history and aspirations. It embodies a vision of unity amidst diversity, offering a platform for collaboration, understanding and mutual support among its diverse member states. Growing up in a Commonwealth country, I have witnessed first-hand the positive impact of this unique association, fostering connections and opportunities across borders. As we celebrate this milestone, the Commonwealth symbolises not only a legacy of the past but also a beacon of hope for the future, promoting peace, prosperity and sustainable development on a global scale.
The Commonwealth strengthens parliamentary institutions worldwide by promoting the rule of law, democratic principles and human rights. Various Commonwealth programmes and initiatives empower Parliamentarians to engage in meaningful dialogue, share best practices and collaborate on critical issues facing their nations. In an era marked by complex geopolitical challenges and rapid technological advancements, parliamentary democracy faces numerous obstacles, including declining trust in institutions, polarisation and the erosion of democratic principles. Consequently, the Commonwealth provides an important platform for consensus-building, ensuring that democracy remains transparent, responsive and accountable to citizens.
The Commonwealth strengthens the foundations of parliamentary democracy, advancing social justice, equality and human dignity for all by promoting inclusive decision-making processes and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities.
Furthermore, the Commonwealth is crucial in promoting parliamentary diplomacy and multilateralism globally. Through its diplomatic engagements, the Commonwealth advocates for peaceful conflict resolution, promotes dialogue between nations and addresses transnational challenges.
As a voluntary association of 56 independent countries, the Commonwealth reflects the diversity of its membership, representing a wide range of political systems, cultures and socio-economic contexts. This diversity enriches the discourse on parliamentary democracy, fostering a greater understanding of different perspectives and approaches towards governance.
Celebrating the Commonwealth's 75th anniversary indicates its ongoing relevance and importance in advancing parliamentary democracy. Promoting dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect among its member states contributes to build a more inclusive, peaceful and prosperous world for present and future generations. It is incumbent upon us to harness the potential of the Commonwealth in order to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law, and promote the values of freedom, justice and democracy for all.
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