Their objectives and aims also include increasing awareness of and respect for human rights in the Commonwealth, enhancing ability of member countries, especially small states and less developed countries to formulate, manage and implement trade policies at national, regional and multilateral levels and to benefit from such changes.
The aim of the commemoration is to promote understanding on global issues, international cooperation and the work of the Commonwealth to improve lives of its two billion citizens.
The day will be commemorated under the theme: Inclusive Commonwealth. The annual theme is approved by the organisation’s head, currently H.M. Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, in consultation with the Commonwealth Secretary-General and the Council of Commonwealth Societies.
Members of Parliament, the diplomatic corps and other dignitaries are expected to grace tomorrow’s event. Schools in Gaborone are also expected to participate and provide entertainment aligned to this year’s theme.
For its part the mission of the CPA is to promote advancement of parliamentary democracy by, among others, enhancing knowledge and understanding of democratic governance, building an informed parliamentary community able to deepen the Commonwealth’s democratic commitment as well as furthering cooperation among Parliaments and Legislatures.
The 53 Commonwealth member states further aim to support one another in preventing or resolving conflicts, strengthening democracy and rule of law in order to achieve good governance, accountability and transparency. Member states are also to alleviate poverty and promote global economic development. All 53 Commonwealth countries commemorate the day every second Monday of March every year.
