As the 1st African woman to lead the Commonwealth, Hon. Shirley Botchway brings a fresh vision. This is one of the world’s most enduring multilateral institutions.
The Commonwealth’s capacity to develop consensus on even the most difficult issues makes it one of the most effective instruments for advancing resilience and shared prosperity. In a world facing slow growth, social fragility and division, strength is more vital than ever.0
We’re 56 nations across 5 continents. It’s home to 1/3rd of humanity, most of them young. Our diversity is one power. We have some of the largest and fastest-growing economies, as well as some of the smallest. Our founding values of democracy and good governance are renewed for a changing world, and we can ensure that every citizen benefits from the democratic dividend.
My vision is to harness that Commonwealth strength with focus & clarity. The Commonwealth must deepen democracy and strengthen early warning systems. Also, help governments respond effectively to their people’s requirements. It should drive economic transformation by expanding markets through smarter cooperation on trade. Also, through investment, innovation and finance. This is with small and vulnerable states at the center.
It must also lead to climate action. This should unlock finance and technology. It is to deliver a renewable energy revolution that creates opportunity & employment. This is whilst empowering women and young people through education, digital access & STEM learning.
Above all, my goal is a Commonwealth that proves multilateralism can be delivered to all its members.
Recently, I convened a Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers’ Meeting in New York. This was my 1st as Secretary General. I’ve sat in their chairs, so now the wei0ght of responsibility they tend to carry. Also, the pressures they experienced in defending their nations’ interests. This involves playing a dual role in navigating global turbulence, besides serving their people with wisdom & care. I’ve walked the same path and have stood shoulder to shoulder with them.
Today’s crises don’t respect borders. No nation has the capacity to face them alone. The Commonwealth multilateral system remains our best tool for progress. However, in times of strain, the instinct is often to turn inward. My role is to take the strongest possible case for cooperation. This would be by capitalizing on diplomacy, partnership and shared purpose to overcome stagnation and division. The challenges are immense, although our collective resolve is greater.
Commonwealth nations trade with one another at lower costs, in addition to greater trust. That refers to both the Commonwealth’s historical advantage and future opportunities. Trade and investment are central to the Commonwealth’s renewal because they develop resilience and fairness.
Many members are coastal states. They are custodians of ocean wealth and depend on its sustainability.
The Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration calls for an urgent and just transition in maritime transport. This one includes workers and communities. It also respects national circumstances, besides accelerating clean, safe & resilient shipping. It also highlights the promise of blue economies. These may be regenerative but not extractive. Protecting our oceans is not a luxury. It may be a necessity.
At the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting marine ecosystems. Also, reducing pollution, safeguarding maritime zones, and accelerating clean & sustainable shipping. They have tasked the Secretariat with the need to support that agenda. This is through advocacy, partnerships and technical expertise. It’s a responsibility I take seriously.
Our new 5-year Strategic Plan ’25 – ’30 sets environmental resilience as a core priority. One of the biggest hurdles to net-zero remains access to finance. Through the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub, we have already helped members unlock almost USD500 million. This is in climate funding, although far more would be needed.
We are working closely with partners, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This is to share knowledge & strengthen the negotiating capacities of Commonwealth members. We also assist governments in developing national policies for ocean and maritime transport. These integrate decarbonization as a guiding principle.
