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King Charles III’s Landmark Visit to Samoa for CHOGM 2024: A New Chapter for the Commonwealth
As the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) convenes in Samoa this October, King Charles III’s attendance marks a historic first in his role as Head of the Commonwealth. His visit, along with Queen Camilla, brings focus to the unique challenges and aspirations of Pacific island nations, particularly around climate change, which is central to this year’s CHOGM theme: “One Resilient Common Future.” This article explores the significance of the King’s visit, Samoa’s preparations, and the key issues to be addressed at CHOGM 2024.
1. A Historic Milestone: King Charles III’s First CHOGM as Head of the Commonwealth
The 2024 CHOGM is King Charles III’s inaugural attendance in his official role as Head of the Commonwealth, a responsibility he took on following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. The King’s presence underscores his commitment to the organization’s diverse membership, uniting 56 countries across continents. Accompanied by Queen Camilla, he is expected to participate in a series of events that align with his lifelong interests in environmental stewardship, intergovernmental cooperation, and cultural preservation.
At the opening ceremony, the King will address assembled leaders and dignitaries, reinforcing his earlier message about the “near-boundless potential [of the Commonwealth] as a force for good” and its role in advancing global priorities, Queen Camilla will also be engaged in a dedicated session on women’s empowerment and health, focusing on eliminating gender-based violence across Commonwealth nations, a priority area for CHOGM 2024.
2. Samoa’s Historic Role as CHOGM Host
Hosting CHOGM is a major milestone for Samoa, making it the first Pacific Island nation to do so. Samoa’s Prime Minister, Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa, expressed her pride in having Samoa represent Pacific interests on this global stage. She emphasized the importance of leaders personally witnessing the environmental challenges faced by island nations, which bear the brunt of climate change impacts, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events. These issues, which disproportionately affect small island developing states, are expected to dominate the CHOGM discussions.
In preparation, the nation has engaged in a nationwide beautification project, creating a 30-kilometer promenade adorned with flags of all Commonwealth countries. This festive display from Faleolo International Airport to Apia reflects the local community’s enthusiasm and pride in hosting global leaders.
3. Key Agenda: “One Resilient Common Future”
The theme of resilience underpins CHOGM 2024’s agenda, covering four primary areas: strengthening democratic institutions, promoting sustainable economic growth, supporting environmental resilience, and empowering societies through education and social equity. This theme reflects an urgent call for unity and proactive action, especially in addressing the unique vulnerabilities of small island states.
A major agenda item will be the Ocean Declaration, an initiative aimed at safeguarding marine ecosystems, combating ocean pollution, and bolstering sustainable ocean practices. This declaration is especially pertinent to Samoa and other Pacific nations, where the ocean is both a vital natural resource and a central part of cultural identity.
Additionally, CHOGM will host a range of forums: the Youth Forum, People’s Forum, Women’s Forum, and Business Forum. Each forum will allow delegates to share knowledge, set goals, and coordinate on pressing issues. Queen Camilla’s attendance at the Women’s Forum, focusing on health and safety for women and girls, reflects a Commonwealth-wide commitment to advancing gender equality and enhancing women’s health outcomes.
4. Addressing Climate Change and Global Influences
Climate change is the most urgent topic on the CHOGM 2024 agenda, with small island states like Samoa facing unprecedented challenges. Rising sea levels and severe weather patterns have already begun to disrupt life across the Pacific, making climate action a matter of survival for these nations. Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland underscored this by stating that CHOGM 2024 represents a defining moment for small island nations, emphasizing the need for resilient solutions
This CHOGM also occurs amid growing geopolitical tensions in the Pacific, as larger powers, including the United States and China, seek influence in the region. Commonwealth leaders are likely to discuss ways to maintain stability and sovereignty for smaller states amid these external pressures
5. The Legacy of the Commonwealth: Calls for Reflection and Change
Amid the celebrations, some Commonwealth members continue to call for reflection on the organization’s colonial legacy. Leaders and activists, including New Zealand’s Māori Party, have raised issues around reparations, restitution of cultural artifacts, and an apology from King Charles for the historical impact of British colonization. Though
Attached is a article on the CHOGM on transforming the future
https://amp.theguardian.com/world/2024/oct/25/first-edition-commonwealth-chogm-reparations
Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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