CommonGround - Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the ...

ForewordThe Commonwealth is sometimes seen as a complexbody, due in part, perhaps, to the number of levels onwhich it operates. This timely and helpful bookletcould not be clearer in explaining the history,organisation and work of the modern Commonwealth.Based on a values system that embraces consultation,negotiation and consensus, the Commonwealth todayspans 54 countries and represents over 2 billionindividuals – almost one third of the world’spopulation. It reaches across geographical, politicaland social divides to help individuals and communitiesbuild stronger nations; and stronger nations are betterplaced to meet the increasing number of globalchallenges we face today. I am sure you will findCommonGround both interesting and informative, andessential background reading for a betterunderstanding of the modern Commonwealth.Kamalesh Sharma,Commonwealth Secretary-General‘Strength in diversity’ is a saying that could have beeninvented specifically to describe the Commonwealth.With a membership extending from Australia toZambia, Trinidad and Tobago to Tuvalu, today’sCommonwealth represents an amazing diversity ofcultures, beliefs, and nationalities. The CommonwealthFoundation is instrumental in promoting the rights ofindividuals across this broad spectrum. Working withnot-for-profit groups, charities, professional networks,and other similar organisations, we encourageindividuals to speak out on a range of developmentissues that affect them. CommonGround provides aninvaluable resource not only for those wishing to findout more about the Commonwealth, but for thosewho seek to play a more active role in helping toshape and develop it.Dr. Mark Collins, Director,Commonwealth FoundationOriginsEmpire roots 04Towards independence 05Creation of the Commonwealth 06A practical guide to the Commonwealth ➤ Origins3