On Monday, 11 March, we celebrate Commonwealth Day, which promotes the shared values and links of our Commonwealth aiga or family.
This year marks 75 years since the signing of the London Declaration in 1949 that established the Commonwealth as a network of equals united by values and a shared aspiration for a better future. Now as then, the Commonwealth is pledging to strive for peace, liberty and progress. Reflecting those aspirations, the theme of this year’s Heads of Government Meeting and of Monday’s Commonwealth Day Service is resilience. Even as we celebrate our progress, particularly highlighting the role of young leaders, we also recognise that more must still be done.
The Society is honoured to organise the Commonwealth Day Service each year. We are deeply grateful to Their Majesties The King and The Queen, as well as the other Members of the Royal Family, for their steadfast support and that of our partner, Westminster Abbey, in delivering this special event.
Through his commitment to this event, and that of his family, The King, Head of the Commonwealth, reminds us all of the considerable dedication required to serve great causes, and the Commonwealth of peoples and nations in particular.
For this, we do indeed celebrate and give heartfelt thanks.
Dr Linda Yueh CBE
Executive Chair, Royal Commonwealth Society
The Service can be viewed live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer for a UK audience from 2.15pm GMT on Monday, 11 March 2024 and for an international audience on the BBC World Service and BBC YouTube from 2.45pm. Find out more about this year’s performers and speakers.