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Last week on 11 March 2024, the Royal Commonwealth Society welcomed Her Majesty The Queen, HRH The Prince of Wales, TRH The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, HRH The Princess Royal, TRH The Duke and Duchess of Kent, TRH The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and HRH The Duke of Kent to the Commonwealth Day Service of Celebration at Westminster Abbey. They were joined by dignitaries from across the Commonwealth, including The Honourable Dr George Vella, President of Malta and The Right Honourable Patricia Scotland KC, Secretary General of the Commonwealth. This Service looked ahead to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), where Rwanda will hand over to Samoa as the Commonwealth Chair-in-Office. Taking place in October, the theme of CHOGM and the theme for the Service is One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth. The Commonwealth theme echoes back to the Commonwealth’s founding pledges: a commitment 75 years ago to ‘peace, liberty and progress’ in the London Declaration that can only be achieved by building resilient communities and environments. This theme of resilience was evident throughout the performances and readings of the Service, spanning all five regions of the Commonwealth. His Majesty The King’s Commonwealth Day Message, viewed during the Service, emphasised the people, energy and ideas of the Commonwealth and the links that tie them together. Celebrated author and poet Sir Ben Okri OBE recited his poem Transcending History, specially commissioned for this occasion, marking the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth. Lise Honsinger representing Notpla, a UK-based start-up making sustainable packaging materials from seaweed, gave a reflection on environmental resilience and the importance of concrete action. Notpla won the Earthshot Prize in 2022, which was founded by The Prince of Wales. Eternal Taal, performed outside the Great West Door of the Abbey, welcoming guests with their dhol drumming. The group has long worked to promote Bhangra music more widely and encourage women to participate. Trinity Laban Conservatoire Junior Department from Greenwich provided the preservice music. The first performance, representing Africa, were The Ghetto Kids, a dance group formed from a charity to help children in the impoverished Katwe area of Kampala, Uganda. Their aims are to provide equal opportunity to education, accommodation, food and other resources to children in need.  The group’s music represents positivity and garners hope for deprived communities all over the world to overcome difficult circumstances. Europe was represented by a double act of British singer Calum Scott and Jacob Portelli, a harpist from Malta; Calum Scott is an English singer and songwriter who rose to prominence after competing on the ITV talent contest Britain’s Got Talent. He performed at the Coronation Concert and Festival of Remembrance. Scott has been a firm advocate for mental resilience and supports charities focused on mental health awareness. Jacob Portelli is a resident harpist of the Archdiocese of Malta and founding member of Corida string quarter, which performed for the late Queen Elizabeth II. Spencer Klymyshyn, a young Canadian pianist, represented the Americas and Caribbean region. Named by the Canadian Broadcast Corporation as one of Canada’s 30 top classical musicians under 30, Spencer has won numerous awards, including the Canadian Music Competition. The final performance was from the Pacific, a husband and wife pair of Samoan opera singers, Isabella Moore and Benson Wilson, who sang a traditional Samoan song Tofa Mai Feleni, which bids farewell to old friends. The Commonwealth Mace was carried by Matthew Ward, a swimmer who excelled at the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games. The Commonwealth flag was carried by Maya Kirti Nanan, Commonwealth Young Person of the Year 2023, for her work with those with special needs in Trinidad and Tobago. Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, The Rt Hon Baroness Patricia Scotland KC, led the Act of Affirmation to the Commonwealth and the scripture reading was given by His Excellency Johnston Busingye, representing Rwanda as Chair-in-Office. Watch the service in full:

We are delighted to announce that The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is now open for submissions. The theme for this year’s competition is ‘Our Common Wealth’. Nearly half of Commonwealth countries are Small Island Developing States like Samoa that are disproportionately affected by climate change, and communities across the Commonwealth are also facing a range of challenges, including economic growth, peace and security. At a time like this, creating strong and resilient societies is more important than ever. The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2024 asks entrants to consider how they deal with adversity, and how community and culture can be used to encourage resilience and hope in a world with a growing number of global issues. With topics encouraging children to discuss climate change, offer solutions for global problems, and to write creatively about their culture and how Commonwealth values can be used to enhance co-operation, this year’s competition is a prevalent one that underscores the most pressing issues of today’s world. For more information on how to enter the Competition : Enter the QCEC2024 | Royal Commonwealth Society (royalcwsociety.org). The QCEC runs until 15 May this year. Proudly delivered by the Royal Commonwealth Society since 1883, The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is the world’s oldest international annual writing competition for schools. The QCEC seeks to introduce young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, under-represented demographics and remote communities to the idea of writing for fun, developing key literacy skills and working to increase academic attainment.

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.

By Tushar Kanti Baidya (he/him) Hey there, fellow advocates! I'm Tushar Kanti Baidya, an LGBTIQ+ human rights activist hailing from the vibrant city of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Today, I want to share with you a piece of my heart – my incredible journey with CYGEN (Commonwealth Youth Gender and Equality Network), a family that goes beyond borders and breathes life into the fight for gender equality. In 2019, I embarked on this transformative journey with CYGEN, and let me tell you, it has been nothing short of a rollercoaster of passion, growth, and advocacy. CYGEN, hosted by the prestigious Royal Commonwealth Society, stands out among youth networks. It's not just an organization; it's a family, a dynamic force that propels us towards a better Commonwealth. Among the many highlights of my time with CYGEN, what struck me the most was the chance to closely follow patrons of the Royal Commonwealth Society who seamlessly connected with our advocacy work. One of these inspiring figures was none other than the Duchess of Edinburgh, she did not only ignite our fervor for gender equality but also demonstrated how compassion can be embedded into the fight for those most victimized by gender inequality. As a youth worker representing Bangladesh, my key role at CYGEN was as the #Reform Campaign lead. Bangladesh became a focal point for this campaign as the government modified the child marriage restraint act, leading to dire consequences for thousands of girls. Forced into early marriages, these girls faced educational setbacks, malnutrition, domestic violence, and maternal death. Through CYGEN, I was able to localize the pan-Commonwealth campaign, creating a massive impact among local youths, stakeholders, and government bodies. From digital campaigns to grassroots yard meetings, from ambassador interviews to op-eds in national dailies, the #Reform Campaign was a testament to the power of unified advocacy. It was my first experience implementing such a massive campaign in my town, providing me with the courage, skills, and confidence to continue championing gender equality on a global scale. Now, if you're reading this and feeling that spark to make a difference, the good news is that CYGEN is actively recruiting new members! Don't miss out on this chance to explore the world of gender equality with a family that stands strong together. Simply fill out the form, and let's embark on this journey together! You can become a member here --) https://bit.ly/CYGEN2024 Join CYGEN today – because the world needs more advocates, and that advocate could be you! #CYGENGeneration #Reform The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

By Abdool Ridwan (Ryan) Firaas Ah Seek, President, Collectif Arc-en-Ciel My journey to becoming an LGBTI+ rights activist began in my late teens, in 2009. That’s when I first attended Pride in my country of Mauritius. I have to admit, before going to Pride that first time I was really scared. Scared about being seen, about being there so publicly as a gay person. But once I was at Pride I got a real sense of liberation. For the first time I felt truly a part of a wider LGBTI+ community. I’ve always been someone who was motivated to stand up for rights and fight against injustice but attending that Pride event made me realise that I needed to be brave enough to stand up against injustice that affects me personally as a gay man. I also wanted to make sure that all LGBTI+ people had the opportunity to experience that same sense of liberation and community. So I started volunteering with Collectif Arcen-Ciel, the longest-established organisation supporting the LGBTQIA+ community in Mauritius. Collectif Arc-en-Ciel campaigns against homophobia and different forms of discrimination linked to gender identity and sexual orientation, works to protect human rights and also organizes the annual Pride celebration. Over several years my involvement with Collectif Arc-en-Ciel increased and by 2018 I was the organisation’s President. This meant I was responsible for overseeing the organisation of that year’s Pride, which we were hoping would be the biggest and best one yet. That’s when one of the saddest moments of my life happened. Shortly before Pride 2018 we got some devastating news: voices that opposed LGBTI+ rights had become increasingly vocal in Mauritius and now a group of about 400 people were gathered, ready to attack our community. If Pride went ahead there was a very real danger that we would be victims of violence. We simply couldn’t guarantee people would be safe. There was only one decision we could make: Pride was cancelled. After the threat of violence and the cancellation of Pride I felt really down. For years it felt like we had been gradually building up the LGBTI+ community, providing spaces for people to come together whilst also staying under the radar. But the fact of the matter was that when our community was threatened with violence we weren’t protected. In fact, as a gay man, I was living constantly with the possibility that I could be prosecuted just because of who I love. That fear hung over our whole community and inhibited our ability to stand up for our rights. Like many Commonwealth countries, Mauritius inherited a legal code which criminalised LGBTI+ people from its time under British colonial rule. Section 250 of the Mauritian constitution dated back to the 1800s and criminalised sexual intimacy between men regardless of whether there was consent. Whilst the law has not been frequently enforced in recent years, its very existence meant that there was a risk that the police could turn up at my door and arrest me. In my day job I’m a banker and I try to be a respectable and law-abiding citizen. But this law meant that I could face up to five years in prison and a huge fine just for expressing my love for another human being. I knew I might not be able to change the minds of every one of those people who had threatened my community with violence, but I needed to make sure that we had legal rights and that we weren’t living in fear of being prosecuted. The discriminatory Section 250 needed to be overturned. But for that to happen, someone had to step forward and be the visible face of challenging that law. I knew that I had a community around me and my colleagues at Collectif Arc-en-Ciel to support me. It was time for me to step forward and challenge the law. Through working with partners in The Commonwealth Equality Network (TCEN), I knew that the fight to overturn discriminatory laws was going on across the Commonwealth. And I knew there were international partners who would have the expertise to help us take on that fight in Mauritius. Collectif Arc-en-Ciel worked with local lawyers and with experts from the Human Dignity Trust,a UK-based charity which focuses on using the law to defend the human rights of LGBT people globally and is also a member of TCEN, to build our case. We filed the constitutional challenge in 2019 but then the Covid pandemic hit so the first court hearing wasn’t until 2021. That first court session was quite intimidating. I had done lots of preparation and my legal team gave me great support, but nothing really prepares you for putting your whole life in front of a court and inviting a panel of judges to sit in judgement on it. And of course, that’s really what the case was about – what right did the state have to intrude on a person’s most private decisions such as who they were intimate with? After that initial hearing in 2021 there was a subsequent hearing in 2022 for legal arguments - thankfully I didn’t have to give evidence this time. And then we waited. And waited. October 4 2023 was just a normal day, I was starting work. And then, nearly two years before I’d stood in front that panel of judges, I got a call from my attorney: the judgment was out. We’d thought we would have some warning of when the judgment would be released but no, it came out of the blue. My attorney sent someone straight down to the court to get the judgment whilst I waited to find out what it said. That wait was the longest 15 minutes of my life! We’d won. The Court had ruled that Section 250 was unconstitutional. My relationship with my partner, and those of every other LGBTI+ person in Mauritius, was no longer illegal. There was no time to digest the news. Almost immediately I was inundated by calls and media requests – for the next three days I was only sleeping four hours a day as I tried to respond to it all. It didn’t seem real at first. I think the fact that we had actually changed the law only really started to sink in a few weeks later, when things had calmed down and I was able to start going back to normal life. When I started going out people of all ages would come up to me, thanking me for taking the case, for bringing light in the darkness. People were saying that they felt they had been given their freedom, that the successful case has made them hopeful for a better future, for a better Mauritius. Of course, the fight never stops. Although the law is automatically overturned, we need parliament to formally amend the constitution to finally erase Section 250 from the statute. And we need legal protection and recognition for all LGBTI+ people in Mauritius. At the moment we’re working on a project to advance the rights of trans people – in Mauritius there’s no legal recognition of trans people. This means they have no protection from discrimination and often struggle to access healthcare and employment. My advice for young people wanting to campaign on LGBTI+ rights is to build a community around you and learn from others. You truly can’t do it alone and I have been blessed to work with people from all ages and backgrounds. I’ve also been lucky to learn from activists and human right experts who are fighting for LGBTI+ rights in different Commonwealth countries. Also, you’re never too young to fight for change. I was nineteen when I first got involved in LGBTI+ activism and 29 when I brought the legal challenge. In that decade I learned so much, initially by volunteering with others and then by stepping forward and taking the lead myself. I’m proud that the movement for LGBTI+ decriminalisation in Mauritius has been led by young people with fire in our hearts. ABOUT THE AUTHOR I am Ridwan A. F. Ah Seek, aka Ryan, a Mauritian citizen, aged of 33. A banker by profession, a part time presenter, I am also a human rights activist and the President of the Collectif Arc-En-Ciel, an NFO fighting for the LGBTQIA+ Community. And I won a constitutional case against the State of Mauritius. My aim in life to make a better world, where each and every one feels proud of who they are and that each one has the same treatment and opportunity The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

By Dele Fayemi – CYGEN Member (He/Him) In today's rapidly evolving tech landscape, the need for diversity and inclusivity has become more critical than ever, especially within Commonwealth nations. The gender gap in the tech sector is a glaring issue, with recent reports indicating a decline in the percentage of women in tech leadership positions, dropping to just 28% in 2023. Shockingly, women hold a mere 26.7% of tech-related jobs, highlighting the urgent need for increased female representation in the tech space, particularly in larger companies. Beyond advocating for gender equality in tech, it's equally vital to actively encourage and empower women to join the industry. Personally involved in tech recruitment, personal development, and passionate about gender advocacy, I've observed a disheartening trend where a disproportionately low number of female applicants pursue roles in tech. To address this, I've taken initiatives, such as organizing tech workshops that trained over 50 women in 2023, showcasing the myriad opportunities available in the tech sector leveraging on my work at GOMYCODE, an edutech company While statistics underscore the gender gap, it's imperative to confront the barriers and stereotypes deterring women from pursuing tech careers. Creating inclusive environments within tech companies, challenging stereotypes in educational institutions, and fostering a belief that tech is for everyone are essential steps in bridging this gap. Mentorship and support networks play a pivotal role in empowering women in the tech space. Establishing mentorship programs, like the CYGEN network I'm a part of, connects experienced women with aspiring professionals, providing guidance and a roadmap for success through one of its thematic areas; Youth Transitions in Education, Employment and Entrepreneurship. Joining such networks is crucial for building a robust support system that ensures women entering the tech space feel empowered and confident. In conclusion, addressing the gender gap in the tech industry, particularly in Commonwealth nations, is an urgent call to action. Beyond mere rhetoric on gender equality, actively encouraging and empowering women in technology is essential. By addressing barriers, challenging stereotypes, and promoting inclusivity, we can foster a thriving tech community that benefits from the diverse talents and perspectives of both men and women, reshaping the narrative and creating an industry that truly reflects the rich tapestry of our society. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

In a world grappling with persistent gender inequalities, young people have a pivotal role to play in shaping a more equitable future. The Commonwealth Youth Gender and Equality Network (CYGEN) stands as a beacon for youth-led initiatives, actively championing the meaningful inclusion of young voices on gender equality issues. As we launch the #REFORM campaign, it’s crucial to understand why joining CYGEN is not just an opportunity but a responsibility for the youth. Discriminatory gender norms continue to cast shadows on the lives of young individuals globally. CYGEN recognises that young people often find themselves at the receiving end of gender-based discrimination, prejudice and violence. However, instead of viewing youth solely as victims, CYGEN acknowledged the potential of youth in crafting solutions, addressing intersectional challenges and championing equality. At the core of CYGEN’s mission is the aim to improve the position of young people by advocating for increased meaningful engagement and participation in structures, processes and governance. The network facilitates platforms for young individuals to voice their concerns on gender equality issues that not only affect them personally but reverberate across the diverse community across the Commonwealth. CYGEN is not just a standalone initiative; it is supported by The Royal Commonwealth Society, serving as the secretariat of the Network. This sustainable backing adds weight to CYGEN’s endeavour, providing a robust foundation for impactful advocacy and meaningful change. Through this relationship in 2019, CYGEN launched #REFORM53 a Commonwealth wide campaign, today we reevaluate, readdress, and recall the need for young people in the Commonwealth to prioritise the capacity building for legal reform.. #REFORM is a digital campaign spearheaded by CYGEN to leverage various social media platforms in the dissemination of accurate information, factual statistics and educate the gender youth about discriminatory laws. Such laws disproportionately impact women, girls and LGBTI+ individuals. The campaign sends a clear message to leaders of all Commonwealth countries, it’s time to dismantle archaic laws and embrace a future where equality knows no bounds. By joining CYGEN and actively participating in the #REFORM campaign, share and engage young individuals not only become agents of change but also contribute to reshaping the narrative surrounding gender equality. You have until the 15th of March to do so —https://bit.ly/CYGEN2024 The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

On 6 February 1840, chiefs of the indigenous Māori tribes of Aotearoa (New Zealand) gathered in a small coastal town called Waitangi to sign a treaty with the British Crown. Amidst the chaos of early British settlement, Te Tiriti (the Treaty) was viewed as a means of establishing a new form of governance over the land and a partnership between the two parties based on the principles of reciprocity, mutual benefit, active protection, and the duty to act reasonably, honourably and in good faith. The century that followed carried with it a conglomerate of British law that paved the way for mass immigration, resulting in the alienation of Māori-owned land. As the promises of Te Tiriti were broken in the subsequent years, war broke loose and the partnership crumbled. Te Reo Māori, the native language, was effectively outlawed, and brought close to extinction and Māori are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice and health systems. A century of sustained advocacy and protest by generations of Māori saw the tides turn in the late 20th century. The Waitangi Tribunal was formed to hear and make recommendations on claims relating to Crown actions that were in breach of the promises in Te Tiriti. This process has resulted in 86 settlements enshrined through legislation and delivered with a Crown apology. The Māori economy has since grown exponentially. We have schools at all levels being taught in full emersion Te Reo Māori, and the Treaty Principles are being upheld by the judiciary, particularly in respect of challenges against the use of natural resources. However, this progress isn’t assured. The newly elected government has pledged to review the principles of Te Tiriti. The government says the review process will clear “confusion” around its interpretation, but the stark reality is that it places Māori-focused policy at real risk of being undone. This has caused an uproar and mass protest across the country, with legal action already being taken against the government. And so, 184 years on from that monumental day in Waitangi, I find myself reflecting on the impact that this Treaty partnership has had on me as a mixed Māori and New Zealand European citizen – a byproduct of the Treaty itself. My father has always likened the treaty partnership to the New Zealand Coat of Arms displayed above. On the right is a Rangatira or Māori Chieftain holding a taiaha, a Māori war weapon.  On the left, a European woman holding the New Zealand Ensign. Above the shield is St Edward’s Crown which was used in the Coronation ceremony of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, since acceded by King Charles III. On the shield, the four stars represent the Southern Cross. The three ships in the centre symbolise the importance of sea trade. The fleece represents the farming industry. The sheaf of wheat represents the agriculture industry and the crossed hammers represent mining. These are the symbols that are important to the fabric of her world. But where is his world? What is important in his world as a Rangatira of Aotearoa? There are six attributes of Rangatiratanga (chieftainship). These are whakapapa (genealogy), pumanawa (strength, talent and leadership), acceptance and confirmation by the people, identity, Turangawaewae (territory), gender (male and female), mana and tapu (authority, sacredness and respect). Central to these attributes is the concept of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and the relationship that one shares with its ancestral lands and the environment generally. The Rangatira on our Coat of Arms has made every effort to fit into her world. We know this because his descendants speak her language and practice her ideologies, not his. His descendants do not know him or his way of life, nor he them, and so my question for the Commonwealth is this; what can she do to reach across the shield, put on his cloak, and join his world? ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mereaira Jones is of Te Arawa and Tūeharetoa descent. She is the Chair of Ngāti Rānan. A Māori Club based in London which aims to provide New Zealanders residing in the United Kingdom and others interested in Māori culture an environment to teach, learn and participate in Māori culture. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

By Eman Borg (he/him) - Coordinator: Commonwealth Youth Gender Equality Network. In a world grappling with persistent gender inequalities, young people have a pivotal role to play in shaping a more equitable future. The Commonwealth Youth Gender and Equality Network (CYGEN) stands as a beacon for youth-led initiatives, actively championing the meaningful inclusion of young voices on gender equality issues. As we launch the #REFORM campaign, it’s crucial to understand why joining CYGEN is not just an opportunity but a responsibility for the youth. Discriminatory gender norms continue to cast shadows on the lives of young individuals globally. CYGEN recognises that young people often find themselves at the receiving end of gender-based discrimination, prejudice and violence. However, instead of viewing youth solely as victims, CYGEN acknowledged the potential of youth in crafting solutions, addressing intersectional challenges and championing equality. At the core of CYGEN’s mission is the aim to improve the position of young people by advocating for increased meaningful engagement and participation in structures, processes and governance. The network facilitates platforms for young individuals to voice their concerns on gender equality issues that not only affect them personally but reverberate across the diverse community across the Commonwealth. CYGEN is not just a standalone initiative; it is supported by The Royal Commonwealth Society, serving as the secretariat of the Network. This sustainable backing adds weight to CYGEN’s endeavour, providing a robust foundation for impactful advocacy and meaningful change. Through this relationship in 2019, CYGEN launched #REFORM53 a Commonwealth wide campaign, today we reevaluate, readdress, and recall the need for young people in the Commonwealth to prioritise the capacity building for legal reform.. #REFORM is a digital campaign spearheaded by CYGEN to leverage various social media platforms in the dissemination of accurate information, factual statistics and educate the gender youth about discriminatory laws. Such laws disproportionately impact women, girls and LGBTI+ individuals. The campaign sends a clear message to leaders of all Commonwealth countries, it’s time to dismantle archaic laws and embrace a future where equality knows no bounds. By joining CYGEN and actively participating in the #REFORM campaign, share and engage young individuals not only become agents of change but also contribute to reshaping the narrative surrounding gender equality. You have until the 15th of March to do so — https://bit.ly/CYGEN2024 The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

Australia currently celebrates Australia Day on 26 January.  I say currently advisedly.  The day recalls 26 January 1788 when the First Fleet from Britain landed in Sydney, and established a permanent European settlement.  Many indigenous Australians have mixed feelings about this date as our National Day and the impact of European settlement on their ancestors.  Some call it Invasion Day. It is only in relatively recent years that 26 January has been celebrated as our National Day.  In fact it was not till 1988, on the bicentenary of the original settlement, that it became a national public holiday, having been an official holiday only since 1938.  The Commonwealth of Australia itself was inaugurated as a nation on 1 January 1901.  There is a strong argument for this date to be our National Day – along with of course New Year’s Day. It is obviously ideal for a country’s national day to be one which all its citizens – particularly its original indigenous inhabitants with their special connection to the land we share - can embrace in a spirit of unity.  The debate for now continues on the best date to celebrate that unity.  In the meantime 26 January remains Australia Day – conveniently marking the end of summer holidays. Regardless of the debate on the national day, the Commonwealth of Australia can be proud of its success as a multicultural nation.  Social cohesion and respect for its diverse cultures is highly valued and not taken for granted in an increasingly polarised world.  Australia Day is marked by citizenship ceremonies and a celebration of indigenous heritage, emphasising a sense of national belonging. This is also a focus of the activities of the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) branches in Australia.  In Canberra a multi-faith observance is held on Commonwealth Day, and we work closely with the many ethnic and cultural organisations in our capital city. Australia’s membership of the Commonwealth of Nations contributes to that cohesion.  Along with the Australian born citizens, the birthplaces of 6 of the top 10 foreign born immigrant groups are Commonwealth members – namely UK, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Malaysia and Sri Lanka.  What binds us in common as Commonwealth member nations also bonds us as Australian citizens. Australia is an Indo-Pacific nation with global interests and commitments.  Part of that global commitment is to the Commonwealth, the values of its Charter and its work in addressing the challenges of democracy, development and climate change.  Many of Australia’s neighbours in the South Pacific are also members of the Commonwealth and the Pacific Islands Forum. Our common membership reinforces a sense of shared interests and values – and a common future. The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) will be held in the South Pacific island nation of Samoa in October 2024.  This will be a historic moment as it is the first time a CHOGM has been held in a developing Pacific island nation.  Australia and New Zealand, which have hosted several past CHOGMs, are, with other Pacific nations, rallying around Samoa to support it in ensuring a warm Pacific welcome for our 56 member nations from across the world.  RCS Branches in Australia are keen to grow the RCS network across the Pacific. Samoa’s theme for the 2024 CHOGM is “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth”.  It is a both an inspiring and challenging theme.  It reminds us of the existential threat from climate change particularly facing the low lying South Pacific island nations.  We need to build resilience and common approaches across the Commonwealth and the globe in addressing it. There are also other major challenges, economic and geo-political.  Australia, as the largest and most developed economy in the region, and its only G20 member in the region, has a major responsibility in working with Pacific and Commonwealth nations on common solutions. In 2023 the Government of Prime Minister Albanese took a historic step in entering into a unique partnership agreement with fellow South Pacific Commonwealth nation Tuvalu, the Australia-Tuvalu “Falepili” Union.  Felepili is a Tuvalu word meaning good neighbourliness. The agreement covers cooperation on climate change, human mobility and security.  It also sets a precedent for possible future agreements of this nature with other Pacific nations as we build a common future. Australian citizens can be proud their nation is playing a positive role in the region, the Commonwealth and the world.  This is something to celebrate on this Australia Day, and whichever day that may be in the future. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Hon Professor Matthew E K Neuhaus is the President of the Royal Commonwealth Society Canberra Branch and Honorary Professor at the ANU College of Law.  Professor Neuhaus is a former Australian Ambassador and High Commissioner, and Political Director at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

2023 has been an extraordinary year for the Society and the Commonwealth. With the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen, the Commonwealth has a new Head and has entered into a new era. In March, the Society was honoured to deliver the Commonwealth Day Service of Celebration at Westminster Abbey on Commonwealth Day. This Service is the world's premier public event to celebrate the values of the Commonwealth and also served as His Majesty's first major event in his new role in the Commonwealth. During the Service, The King delivered his first Commonwealth Day Message, in which he spoke of The Royal Family's commitment to the organisation and its international Commonwealth family. He said: “The Commonwealth has been a constant in my own life, and yet its diversity continues to amaze and inspire me. Its near boundless potential as a force for good in the world demands our highest ambition; its sheer scale challenges us to unite and be bold… Whether on climate change and biodiversity loss, youth opportunity and education, global health, or economic cooperation, the Commonwealth can play an indispensable role in the most pressing issues of our time. Ours is an association not just of shared values, but of common purpose and joint action.” Reflecting on the Commonwealth Year of Youth and Year of Peace, the Service highlighted the tremendous contributions of all those who contribute selflessly to promote the value and values of the Commonwealth. Watch this year's Service and view the photo gallery. 2023 has been another record-breaking year for The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC). 34,924 children from 50 out of 56 Commonwealth countries entered the QCEC. As part of Winners' Week, we were privileged to be hosted by Her Majesty The Queen at Buckingham Palace for an Award Ceremony to celebrate the incredible achievements of Siddhi, Shreeya, Kong and Mitali, the 2023 winners who hailed from India and Malaysia. Find out more about them, read their winning entries and view all the photos from the Award Ceremony. This year also marks 140 years of the QCEC, and we were delighted to be joined by former competition winners at the House of Lords to launch a commemorative publication, The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition: 140 Years of Excellence, published by Bloomsbury. Watch this video to hear from former winners about the impact this unique competition has had on their lives: To expand the reach of the QCEC, we were delighted to launch a new digital literacy initiative, Write Around the World, in partnership with the Royal Society of Literature (RSL). Through a series of interactive and engaging video modules presented by an RSL Fellow, Write Around the World will introduce young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, under-represented demographics and remote communities to creative writing while also developing critical literacy skills that can increase educational attainment. Throughout the programme, young people will hone their skills in journalism, poetry, letter writing, short story writing, scriptwriting, and essay writing. By the end of the programme, participants will not only be equipped with the tools to express themselves in a way that can generate the changes they wish to see in the world, but they will also have produced a piece to submit to The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition. Find out how to participate and view an introductory video by RCS Ambassador Ayesha Dharker. We were again delighted to host the High Commissioners' Banquet with the City of London Corporation and in partnership with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council at Mansion House. This annual black tie event highlights the Society's unique position within the Commonwealth family to bring together the Commonwealth's political and diplomatic representatives with civil society, business and youth leaders. With Samoa becoming the Chair-in-Office of the Commonwealth in October 2024, we were honoured to welcome The Hon Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa, Prime Minister of Samoa, who addressed Banquet guests on the vital role we must all play in addressing climate change. Biodiversity, resilience, and ocean conservation will be critical issues leading to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2024, and ocean plastic is an issue that unduly affects the Commonwealth. Commonwealth member states account for 36 per cent of the world's national marine waters, and 49 out of 56 countries have marine coastlines. One of the Society's strategic aims is to prevent 1 million pieces of plastic from entering our oceans by 2025. In support of this, the Society was pleased to share details of a new campaign to tackle ocean plastic pollution with guests that will be launched in 2024. This youth-led campaign will seek to involve the entire Commonwealth and shine a spotlight on plastic pollution and the unequal effect of marine pollution on Small Island States, which make up nearly half of all Commonwealth countries. This initiative will help countries to deliver the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14, which has highlighted that "plastic is the most harmful type of ocean pollution". We would welcome your support in helping to achieve this goal. Whether through donations, volunteering to help pick up plastic, or attending webinars to learn more, your assistance would be greatly appreciated. Find out more about how you can support this campaign. As the year comes to a close, I would like to thank all of our volunteers, supporters and partners who have taken the time to support our work this past year. To become more involved in 2024, please consider becoming a Friend. It is only with your generous support and our collective endeavour that we will make the world a better place for all Commonwealth citizens. Season's Greetings. Dr Linda Yueh CBE Executive Chair

In November, Shreeya, Siddhi, Kong and Mitali, the winners of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023, were invited to London for Winners’ Week, a programme of cultural and educational activities, designed to highlight the range of opportunities and industries which creative writing can open the door. This year, Winners’ Week was full of exciting activities and memorable experiences for our winners, who left London full of gratitude, new ideas and enhanced motivation to pursue their dreams. Winners’ Week began with a fascinating writing workshop at the Mulberry School of Girls held by award-winning British Pakistani poet Imtiaz Dharker. Imtiaz prompted our winners to consider the theme of freedom, culminating in a wonderful poem by each student that was shared with the class. This exercise facilitated confidence and collaboration, leading our winners to make friends with the schoolgirls who were also involved in the activity and encouraged cultural exchange. This was followed by the winners joining the Speaker of the House of Commons, The Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, for lunch in Speaker’s House, and meeting his cat Attlee! After a discussion with Mr Speaker, the winners were then given an exclusive tour of the Houses of Parliament, which included an opportunity to watch the Speaker’s Procession, followed by observing a live debate in the House of Commons. Photo Credit: UK Parliament The day ended with a tour of Bloomsbury – as fans of Harry Potter, they relished the opportunity to discover where it all started! Here, they learned about the processes that go into publishing books from Publishing Director Jayne Parsons. Our winners learned a lot from this exchange, and Junior Runner-up Mitali noted: “One thing I learnt from her is how an editor can give you fresh perspective and honest feedback. I will be more open to feedback and criticism regarding my work in the future.” On Tuesday, the winners woke up early to travel to Stratford-upon-Avon for all things Shakespeare: they visited his birthplace and grave and learned about Shakespearean music. It was a day full of culture and fun. Our wonderful guide, The Rev Dr Paul Edmonson (Chair of the QCEC Junior Judging Panel), steered us through the streets of the old town and explained the history behind its’ famous churches and monuments. It was a memorable day. In Junior Runner-up Mitali’s own words: “You truly need to be there and walk down the streets that Shakespeare once walked to feel the magic of the little town.” On Wednesday, winners experienced a bespoke tour of Westminster Abbey, where our guide was swayed by the passion of our winners. Former Prime Ministers and the lesser-known figures memorialised and buried at the Abbey were highlighted – especially those with links to the Commonwealth. The winners thoroughly enjoyed learning about the history of the Abbey and seeing their favourite writers like Charles Dickens memorialised. Senior Winner Siddhi noted: “The historical site I enjoyed the most was Westminster Abbey - especially Poet’s Corner. To be in the presence of the poets I admire so much was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I hope to visit it again in the future, and the Abbey will definitely serve as an inspiration in my future writing.” Following this, the winners were graced with the wisdom and knowledge of Doug Wills, Editor Emeritus and his team at the London Evening Standard. The afternoon gave the winners the opportunity to tour the newsroom and engage in a discussion with Doug and his team about multimedia and the opportunities it presents, sowing seeds of inspiration in our budding writers. This was followed by the group enjoying sunset views above the BBC Broadcasting House as they recorded their winning pieces with experienced producers. The day ended with the group taking a trip to Cambridge Theatre to watch Matilda, the Musical. On Thursday morning, the winners had the opportunity to share their essays and engage in interesting conversations with the High Commissioners of India and Malaysia at their respective High Commissions. At last, it was time for the moment the winners had all been waiting for: their Awards Ceremony at Buckingham Palace with Her Majesty The Queen! RCS Ambassador Gyles Brandreth acted as compère for the Ceremony, during which The Queen and the RCS Executive Chair, Dr Linda Yueh CBE, spoke about the importance of the competition to elevate the voices of young people around the Commonwealth. The winners were awarded their certificates by Her Majesty, and extracts from their winning pieces were read by RCS Ambassador Ayesha Dharker, actors Dame Joanna Lumley DBE, Meera Syal CBE, Sanjeev Bhaskar OBE and Booker Prize winner Sir Ben Okri OBE. View the full photo gallery for the Award Ceremony. The Award Ceremony was also centre stage for the launch of a new digital literacy initiative, Write Around the World, developed in partnership with the Royal Society of Literature. Winners’ Week concluded with a special reception celebrating 140 years of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition. Held at the House of Lords and hosted by Lord Gadhia, we were pleased to be joined by current and former winners of the competition, members of the diplomatic corps and competition supporters for the launch of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition: 140 Years of Excellence, a commemorative publication published by Bloomsbury to celebrate this unique Commonwealth writing competition. During the reception, guests heard from Lord Gadhia, Dr Linda Yueh CBE, Dr Stephen Gichuhi (1982 competition winner from Kenya) and His Excellency the Governor of Lagos State about the important role literacy plays. This was a wonderful opportunity for past and present winners to engage and enjoy a leisurely evening before heading back home. Congratulations again to this year’s winners, to everyone who entered and to all those who judged and supported the competition. We look forward to launching the next competition in March 2024!