The Commonwealth People’s Forum (CPF) has been held in the run up to Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) since 1991. During this time it has become an established part of the interface between governments and civil society.
Historically, the CPF has culminated in a Civil Society Statement, embodying the collective voice of civil society by capturing the key points raised during the Forum itself. This year the Statement will be produced in advance of the CPF, based on the outcomes of extensive regional civil society consultations taking place in the lead up to the CPF in October. Initially presented at the Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New York in September, this change of emphasis will elevate the Statement to become a much stronger advocacy tool in the CHOGM process, as well as guiding the discussions and actions arising from the CPF.
In recent years the CPF has adopted the overarching CHOGM theme, for example “Realising People’s Potential” in Uganda (2007) and “Partnering for a More Equitable and Sustainable Future” in Trinidad & Tobago (2009). The theme brings greater clarity and direction to the broad range of debates housed within the CPF framework and also provides valuable linear linkage with the CHOGM agenda.
Visit our resources section for previous Commonwealth People’s Forum publications.