As COP26 Talks Progress, Let’s Define The Commonwealth

If you are like me, the idea of the Commonwealth may be a bit obscure and unknown. But as talks at the UN Climate Change Conference continue, this phrase has become the centerfold in some crucial conversations. Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, spoke at COP26 and appealed for increased support for the smallest and most vulnerable nations. Referenced in news articles and political discussions, what is the Commonwealth? And why should we care?

“I urge leaders to come to the table with the highest possible ambition and a reinvigorated determination to do all we can to keep a 1.5-degree cap on global warming. The science is clear–failing on this mission will cost us a viable, sustainable future for our children and grandchildren. We must not squander this opportunity to build back on a more sustainable path.” -Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland

What is it?

The Commonwealth of Nations is more simply known as the Commonwealth. Built on the foundation of 54 member states, almost all of which were former territories of the British Empire, the organization dates back to the first half of the 20th century. Today, we see it as a modernized community with “free and equal” member states. The Commonwealth exists as a voluntary association and is home to 2.4 billion people of advanced economies and developing countries from Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific.

Why should we care?

While the Commonwealth may be a relic of an old English empire, smaller countries have benefited from the remaining members. It represents a coat or protective gear that welcomes the opportunity to help the more petite man. States like Australia or India rarely require the organization. But tiny and lesser-known Nauru, in the Central Pacific, with a population of just 10,900, struggles to have its voice heard without the connectivity of the Commonwealth.

And with its headquarters in Marlborough House on Pall Mall, it offers a stable place for the Commonwealth leaders to pop into during visits to London. Here, they can either complain about the rudeness of British politicians, ask for advice, or create a plan of action for a future change.

Making the world a better place, one program at a time

This movement and community of leaders have operated in multiple ways to benefit large and small countries. With many ideas on enhancing the world around them, the Commonwealth focuses mainly on environmental issues, democracy, government and law, trade and economy, and society and young people.

Commonwealth controversy

Despite these actions, some analysts have emphasized the Commonwealth’s weak institutional structure. Human rights movements have also charged that the body has overlooked rights abuses, including anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Gambia and Malawi and widespread atrocities throughout the civil war in Sri Lanka. Various internal reports show that members were worried that the body might lack transparency and clarity over its mission and are uncertain about its funding.

Ties with Brexit

Brexit supporters have said that, in comparison to the European Union, the Commonwealth is a more natural way for the UK to interact with outside states. And with Brexit now official and London busy negotiating a new trade relationship with the EU, some policymakers say the UK’s post-EU future should deepen trade and immigration with the Commonwealth. When comparing the two economies, the Commonwealth has seen an average growth rate of 4.4% over the past four decades, compared to the EU’s 2%. So, at least for now, the two will continue to work side by side until further conversation.