(Commonwealth)_ Every second Monday in March, the world comes together to celebrate Commonwealth Day, an annual event that honors the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and values shared by the 56 member countries of the Commonwealth. This year’s celebration was no exception, as dignitaries, parliamentarians, and representatives from across the globe gathered to reaffirm their commitment to cooperation, unity, and the pursuit of a common good.
The Commonwealth, a voluntary association of sovereign nations, is home to 2.7 billion people, representing nearly one-third of the world’s population. Its members span across Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific, encompassing a diverse range of economies, religions, and cultures. The organization’s primary goal is to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, while also fostering economic and social development among its members.
The event space at Portcullis House was filled to capacity, with an audience that included High Commissioners, Members of Parliament from across the Commonwealth, and representatives from accredited organisations. The atmosphere was one of celebration and reflection, as attendees came together to honour the rich history and shared values of the Commonwealth.
Representing the Commonwealth Secretariat was its Deputy Secretary-General, Dr. Arjoon Suddhoo, who emphasized the importance of embracing the diversity of the 56-member union. He remarked, “Commonwealth Day is not only important, it’s vital because it reminds all of us – the young people and the not-so-young, some of the biggest countries and some of the smallest ones, to come together and work together. Reconnecting with our shared values is so important, particularly in today’s context.”
Dr. Suddhoo further highlighted the collective strength of the Commonwealth, adding, “When we come together as 56 nations, as 2.7 billion people, we are really a force to reckon with. A strong voice for many people.”
The Speaker of the UK House of Commons, Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle, also addressed the gathering, reminding the audience of the vast responsibility and shared history within the Commonwealth. He reflected on the significance of the upcoming 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, stating, “Not only are we one large family of nations, but as we celebrate Commonwealth Day today we do so, almost 80 years after the end of the Second World War, which will doubtless be one of the biggest and most significant anniversary commemorations for WW2 yet.
“That anniversary is a timely reminder of how we, as diverse Commonwealth countries, fought together to defeat a common enemy and how we worked together afterwards to rebuild our nations, parliaments, and lives.”
A key highlight of the event was the opening of a special exhibition staged by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The exhibition commemorated the lives of 580,000 soldiers from the Commonwealth who died or went missing during World War II. At the heart of the exhibition stood a striking 17.5-metre glass wall, etched with the names of all the soldiers the commission commemorates at its cemeteries and memorials around the world. The memorial served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for peace and freedom.
Commonwealth Day is not only a celebration of unity and diversity but also a reminder of the immense potential that lies within the organization. As we reflect on the past and look towards the future, let us continue to work together, embracing our shared values and striving for a more just, equitable, and prosperous world for all.
