Big Things Happening in the Commonwealth This Month

The next few weeks will prove to be an exciting time for citizens and leaders of the Commonwealth, with some big events approaching in the coming month

The next few weeks will prove to be an exciting time for citizens and leaders of the Commonwealth, with some big events approaching in the coming month.

First, on March 12, is Commonwealth Day, which celebrates the past, present and future of the Commonwealth and its citizens. A number of events are being hosted around the world, including the Eden Project’s Big Lunch.

Last year, 9.3 million people in the UK, almost 14% of the country, joined in the Big Lunch 2017 and this year the Eden Project hopes to spread the event across all six continents.

The Eden Project aims to strengthen local connections and communities through tackling local issues and utilising talent.

Their website offers a free planning pack, a step by step guide on organising the day, and a range of recipes to try from many of the 52 countries in the Commonwealth.

Celebration events include street parties, debates, faith and civic gatherings, fashion shows, flag raising ceremonies and school assemblies, with a diversity that reflects the unity and values of the Commonwealth.

The Queen will attend a multicultural, multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey in London and will deliver a speech as Head of the Commonwealth.

Secretary-General Patricia Scotland and other leading global figures are also expected to deliver statements on the links between governments, people and institutions within the family of 52 nations.

Next, on the week of April 16, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, also known as the Commonwealth Summit, is taking place in London and various other locations around the UK.

Delegates from the 52 member states will convene to discuss key global challenges and how to create a safer and more prosperous, fair and sustainable future, under the theme `Towards a Common Future’.

A variety of forums will take place around and during the main event and will gather representatives from the public and private sector across the Commonwealth.

The other big event taking place in April will be the Commonwealth Games, taking place on the Gold Coast, Australia on 4-15 April.

The international multi-sport event has been billed as the most inclusive, fairest Games ever and officials are in the final stages of selecting athletes to represent each competing nation, whilst athletes are preparing to fly out to Australia for their final training sessions.

With so many exciting and innovative events taking place in the next month, Commonwealth citizens are being encouraged to take part in celebrations and commit to making the change they want to see.