Economic Development

Objective

The Secretariat aims to strengthen policies and systems that support economic growth in our member countries. We help Commonwealth countries take advantage of opportunities for economic growth and improve their ability to manage their economic development in the long-term.

Relevance

Our work is mandated by Commonwealth Heads of Governments and Ministerial meetings, which set the broad priorities. We respond to demand for assistance in the mandated areas.

Programmes are adjusted over time to adapt to developments in the international economic environment as well as to take into account the evolving needs of member countries. We aim to be flexible and responsive to the needs of our membership.

Impact

The Secretariat’s ability to provide cost-effective assistance and our role as an honest broker in delivering policy analysis and advice are highly valued across the Commonwealth, particularly by small states and least developed countries.

We have a track record of brokering policy and negotiating positions among Commonwealth countries on international economic and financial issues. For example, in promoting successive stages of debt relief in the international system.

Video: Small States Talk Solutions