Commonwealth Nations Endorse 5-Year Strategic Plan to Drive Development Across 2.7 Billion People

The 56 member states of the Commonwealth have unanimously approved a new five-year strategic plan aimed at enhancing the organization’s impact and support for its 2.7 billion citizens.

Covering the period from 2025 to 2030, the plan was finalized following wide-ranging consultations with member nations, affiliated organizations, development partners, and other key stakeholders.

Outlining the new course of action, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey emphasized that the strategy will sharpen the Secretariat’s focus and improve delivery to better serve the people of the Commonwealth.

According to a statement issued after the High Commissioners’ meeting, the plan will be driven by three central pillars: democratic resilience, economic resilience, and environmental resilience. These will be supported by cross-cutting priorities focusing on youth, women, and small states, in a bid to accelerate development across diverse contexts.

One of the plan’s major priorities is the expansion of digital skills among youth through distance learning, youth entrepreneurship initiatives, and a stronger emphasis on STEM education for girls.

To boost implementation, the strategy also includes performance accelerators and enablers, such as enhanced partnerships, integration of new technologies, and internal reforms within the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Member countries reaffirmed their commitment to addressing pressing global and local issues, including education, health, and the rights of people with disabilities.

Speaking at the board meeting, Secretary-General Botchwey stressed the interconnected nature of today’s challenges—from climate change and trade to democratic governance and youth empowerment.

“That’s why this strategic plan is grounded in the enduring values of our Charter, but shaped by the real, present demands of our time,” she said.