On March 10, 2025, millions around the globe will commemorate Commonwealth Day, themed ‘Together We Thrive.’ This occasion unites 2.7 billion citizens from the 56 Commonwealth member countries to celebrate shared values and work towards a collective future. Diverse festivities, including festivals, fairs, and faith-based services, will take place, highlighting unity across the Commonwealth.
Celebrations will be rich in variety—a street parade in Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, will showcase local culture, while special observances are planned in Wellington, New Zealand, and a flag-raising ceremony in Lisburn and Castlereagh, Northern Ireland. Educational initiatives will also resonate; in Nigeria’s Cross River state, schoolchildren will participate in special readings, and in Pakistan, young people will join for a Commonwealth Day-themed Iftar.
King Charles III, head of the Commonwealth, expressed the importance of friendship and support among member nations in his message for the day. He noted, “In these uncertain times… the Commonwealth’s remarkable collection of nations and peoples come together in the spirit of support and, crucially, friendship.” The King, along with other prominent figures, will attend a multicultural Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey, where expressions of music and readings will highlight this year’s theme, featuring performances from artists like Joan Armatrading.
Patricia Scotland, the Commonwealth Secretary-General concluding her term in March 2025, emphasized the enduring values of the Commonwealth in her final message for the day, reflecting on the strength provided by common bonds of history, language, and shared commitments towards peace, justice, and sustainable development.
Commonwealth Day, observed annually on the second Monday in March since 1977, continues to evolve, with celebrations now extending over an entire week. During this time, the winners of the 2025 Commonwealth Youth Awards and the Commonwealth Peace Prize will be announced to honor those who have made significant contributions to peace and development.
This year’s Commonwealth Day also marks the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat, which plays a vital role in promoting collaboration among nations, particularly in areas like climate action and youth development.
As Commonwealth nations embrace their shared heritage and mutual goals, this day serves as a hopeful reminder of unity and collaboration despite global challenges.
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