Commonwealth leaders push for reform of international institutions

Commonwealth Heads of Government in New York on 24 September 2008 gave the clearest signal yet that the Commonwealth was well placed to push for the reform of international institutions, including international financial institutions.

The diversity and global spread of Commonwealth countries is a unique feature of the association, which represents a microcosm of the global community.

They called for further work to promote the reforms identified by the 11 leaders and representatives who met last June in London. At the special summit, they highlighted the importance of reform efforts being inclusive, so that all states irrespective of size and strength have the opportunity to participate and contribute to global discussions on the issue.

Leaders also agreed to pursue reform of the current global arrangements for managing the environment and development.

The Commonwealth Secretary-General was charged with taking forward their reform agenda.

Key Links:

• Secretary-General