McKinnon: Commonwealth Generates Consensus On Global Issues
11 November 2004
The Commonwealth can generate consensus on some of the most difficult global issues and ensure no one is left out in the cold, particularly when it concerns subjects like terrorism, said Secretary-General Don McKinnon.
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| Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon delivers his lecture at City University. |
Delivering a lecture at the City University in London, UK, on 9 November 2004, Mr McKinnon pointed out that Commonwealth leaders issued a very strong statement on terrorism shortly after 9/11.
He said: "This statement is an example of how Commonwealth member states can reach agreement through consensus, even on the most difficult issues.
"It is the only case of any international organisation taking the position that 'any member country that aids, supports, instigates, finances or harbours terrorists, or permits such activities within its jurisdiction, violates the fundamental values of our association and should have no place in it'."
The lecture was part of a weekly series conducted by City University. Speaking on 'The Commonwealth -- Dead or Alive?', Mr McKinnon stated that it was useful to look at this question through the lens of member countries: "What are countries looking for when they decide to join an organisation like the Commonwealth?
"First, they want an organisation that fits into the network of partners that make up their external relationships. Second, they are looking for a springboard that will allow them to raise issues of concern to them in a global forum and will add to their political weight. Third, they want to be part of a network of partners they can co-operate with to further their interests in the areas of trade, investment and foreign policy."
Member countries were also looking for an organisation with strong values and principles, one that commanded respect internationally. Finally, they wanted a body that would deliver on its objectives and use its financial resources efficiently.
"Each country will look at an organisation like the Commonwealth from their own perspective; like supporters around a cricket pitch, they all watch the same game, but they all get a different piece of the action," the Secretary-General asserted.
Mr McKinnon noted that the 'British Commonwealth' has long ceased to exist, having been replaced by a modern Commonwealth held together by much more than historical linkages. "Apart from their shared conventions, institutions and working language, Commonwealth countries are bound together by their joint commitment to democracy, human rights and sustainable development. They share a sense of common purpose and the determination to work together to achieve growth and generate real opportunities for all Commonwealth countries."
CNIS - the Commonwealth News and Information Service Issue 209 10 November 2004
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