More than 3,000 delegates and leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations, representing a collective population of 2.7 billion, are set to convene in Apia, Samoa, next week for the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Marking a historic milestone, Samoa becomes the first Small Island Developing State (SIDS) from the Blue Pacific region to host the bi-annual summit.
Milestones and Key Events
This year’s CHOGM marks several notable firsts, including the attendance of His Majesty King Charles III as Head of the Commonwealth, accompanied by Queen Camilla. The Queen will advocate for women’s and girls’ health and wellbeing during a special event.
A major highlight will be the adoption of an Ocean Declaration, designed to accelerate efforts toward sustainable ocean management, crucial for member states heavily affected by climate change. Additionally, a new Commonwealth Secretary-General will be elected to succeed Patricia Scotland KC, whose term concludes in March 2025.
Theme: Building Resilience for a Common Future
Under the theme “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming Our Common Wealth,” the summit focuses on strengthening resilience in four critical areas:
- Democratic Institutions: Upholding human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
- Environmental Action: Combating climate change through sustainable practices.
- Economic Recovery: Fostering robust, inclusive economies post-pandemic.
- Social Empowerment: Promoting equality, particularly for women and youth.
Addressing Climate Urgency
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland KC emphasized the urgency of climate action:
“CHOGM Samoa 2024 comes at a defining moment when the impacts of climate change are no longer distant threats but present realities. The decisions made here will significantly impact our collective future, particularly for Pacific nations facing rising sea levels.”
Samoa’s Prime Minister, Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa, echoed this sentiment:
“The Commonwealth has always supported small states, and this summit offers a unique opportunity to share experiences in adapting to climate challenges. Collaboration is key to building the resilience that underpins our theme.”
Key Forums and Cultural Celebrations
The week-long event will feature various forums—Youth, People, Business, and Women’s—alongside 35 side events, bilateral meetings, and publication launches. An opening ceremony will celebrate Samoa’s rich cultural heritage and the diverse traditions of the Blue Pacific.
Shaping the Commonwealth’s Future
Leaders will engage in executive sessions and a retreat to deliberate on shared priorities, with outcomes summarized in a final communiqué on October 26. This document will guide the Commonwealth’s future initiatives and reflect commitments made since the previous CHOGM in Kigali, Rwanda.
As Samoa prepares to welcome the Commonwealth family, the summit promises to foster cooperation, share best practices, and chart a path toward a more resilient and prosperous future for all member states.
