Young people are better connected, more informed and better prepared than previous generations. They are defining the Commonwealth for today, the future by taking the lead in upholding democratic values; promoting development and building stronger communities.
The Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment 2007-2015 is the Commonwealth's framework for cooperation on youth affairs. Through this Plan of Action, Commonwealth Heads of Government have affirmed that: "empowering young people means creating and supporting enabling conditions under which young people can act on their own behalf and on their own terms, rather than at the direction of others."
The Commonwealth has its own youth consultative body, the Commonwealth Youth Caucus. Operating at national, regional and Pan-Commonwealth levels, it represents young people’s interests to the Commonwealth Youth Programme, youth ministries and other partners.
Youth Caucus members play leading roles at the Commonwealth Youth Forum (CYF), a major channel for young people’s participation at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (CHOGM) held every two years. The CHOGM Youth Dialogue is an opportunity for Commonwealth Heads of Government and young people to interact. Through Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma, the Prime Minister will invite all Heads of Government to participate in the third CHOGM Youth Dialogue on in Perth, Australia.
Through Youth leadership, health, learning and cultural diversity, young people continue to play an important role in contributing to the strategies that shape their communities. Read more
Young people continue to play an important role in building communities at the local and national levels by promoting healthy lifestyles, sport, and cultural diversity. Read more
Youth in the Commonwealth play a vital role in upholding the community’s core beliefs and values, especially those respecting democracy and human rights. Read more
The Commonwealth supports efforts by governments, the business community and civil society to widen opportunities for young people. Read more
