At the close of the 2009 Commonwealth People’s Forum in Trinidad and Tobago civil society organisations sent a clear message to Commonwealth Governments that they are core to the very being of the Commonwealth.
They presented a statement addressing the CHOGM theme to Commonwealth Foreign Ministers on Wednesday 25 November, which focused on the need for concerted action to address the economic downturn and climate change. It also made reference to the need to uphold universal human rights across the 53 member states.
It was developed by citizen's organisations, faith groups, artists groups, trade unions and professional associations from more than 50 countries. They met ahead of CHOGM at the Commonwealth People's Forum (CPF) to debate issues on the Commonwealth's agenda.
Speaking at the CPF closing session, the Minister for Social Development in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Amery Browne said; "Solutions lie not just at the level of the Heads and Parliaments but at constructive gatherings of the peoples of the Commonwealth." He went on to say; "Solutions require the inputs of those most involved. You have given the nearly two billion people of the Commonwealth an avenue to air their concerns and by extension enable their participation in the decision making process."
Commonwealth Foundation Director, Dr Mark Collins said the civil society statement was "a reflection of the concerns and aspirations of the Commonwealth people and that it must be used by civil society as their guide over the next two years to achieve great things."