(Commonwealth)_ Under the theme ‘Together We Thrive’, Commonwealth Day on 10 March 2025 will unite 2.7 billion citizens across 56 member countries in a celebration of shared values and a collective vision for the future. This annual event highlights the bonds of friendship and cooperation among nations, reinforcing the importance of unity.
From the islands of Tuvalu in the Pacific to Trinidad in the Caribbean, and extending to diaspora communities worldwide, celebrations will take diverse forms, all tied together by the common thread of solidarity. In Cross River State, Nigeria, schoolchildren will participate in special readings, while in Islamabad, Pakistan, young people will gather for a Commonwealth Day-themed Iftar, blending tradition and community spirit.
In Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, a vibrant street parade will mark the occasion, while Wellington, New Zealand, will host a special observance at Parliament House. Additionally, Lisburn and Castlereagh in Northern Ireland will honor the day with a ceremonial flag-raising event, symbolizing their commitment to the Commonwealth’s values.
His Majesty King Charles III, Head of the Commonwealth, shared a heartfelt message for the day, emphasizing the strength found in diversity. He stated, “In these uncertain times, where it is all too easy to believe that our differences are problems instead of a source of strength and an opportunity for learning, the Commonwealth’s remarkable collection of nations and peoples come together in the spirit of support and, crucially, friendship… The Commonwealth’s ability to bring together people from all over the world has stood the test of time and remains as ever important today.”
A highlight of the celebrations will be the Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey in London. The King will attend this traditional interfaith and multicultural service alongside members of the Royal Family, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, leaders, dignitaries, and hundreds of young people. The event will bring the ‘Together We Thrive’ theme to life through music, readings, and reflections from voices across the Commonwealth. Acclaimed singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading will also deliver a special performance, adding to the day’s significance.
In her final message for Commonwealth Day, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, reflected on the enduring strength of the Commonwealth. Having served since 1 April 2016 and set to conclude her tenure on 31 March 2025, she said, “In a world that can so often feel fragile and divided, we gather today in celebration of a union which has endured, evolved, and flourished through the years… The ties which bind us are not only those of history, language, or institutions, but of something far greater: a shared commitment to the values which anchor us – peace, justice, and sustainable development. These values have been tested, again and again, by the challenges of our era, yet they endure, because they are lived and championed by the extraordinary people of our 56 nations.”
Commonwealth Day has been observed annually on the second Monday of March since 1977. In recent years, the observance has expanded from a single day into a full week of celebrations. This year, the week will feature the announcement of the winners of the 2025 Commonwealth Youth Awards and Commonwealth Peace Prize, recognizing exceptional contributions to peace and development from individuals across the member nations.
Adding to the significance of this year’s celebrations, 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat, the executive arm of the association. Over the decades, the Secretariat has collaborated with member countries to achieve remarkable progress, particularly in pioneering climate action, supporting small states, and advancing youth development. As Commonwealth citizens around the globe come together to celebrate, the message of unity, shared values, and collective progress will resonate deeply, reinforcing the spirit of ‘Together We Thrive’ and looking ahead to a brighter, more connected future.
