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Head of the Commonwealth

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  • Who is Head of the Commonwealth?
    Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
  • Who will be the next Head of the Commonwealth?
    The Queen is Head of the Commonwealth in a personal capacity and the position is not an inherited one. It will be up to the Commonwealth Heads of Government to decide what they want to do about this symbolic role.
  • What does the Head of the Commonwealth do?
    The Queen’s role now includes, by developing tradition, a number of symbolic functions. She holds discussions with Commonwealth leaders, in national capitals, in London and during Heads of Government Meetings. She visits the host country during each summit, meeting the leaders in individual audience and at larger formal functions.
    Her state visits have included most Commonwealth countries – not only those in which she is head of state – meeting the people as well as leaders. She delivers a Commonwealth Day broadcast and is present at other Commonwealth Day events including the multi-faith observance – traditionally held at Westminster Abbey – and the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s reception.
  • How long can you be Head of the Commonwealth?
    Unlike the Commonwealth Secretary-General, there is no maximum fixed term for the Head of the Commonwealth who can serve until he/she dies or decides to leave office.

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