Civil society urged to help shape Commonwealth agenda ahead of CHOGM 2026

Antigua and Barbuda has taken another step in its preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026, with officials calling on civil society to help shape the future direction of the Commonwealth.

Speaking at the launch of the Commonwealth People’s Forum, Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene said it was a “profound honour” to welcome stakeholders to an initiative designed to strengthen citizen engagement ahead of the global summit.

The forum will give civil society groups an opportunity to contribute ideas and recommendations that could influence discussions among Commonwealth leaders when they meet in Antigua and Barbuda later this year.

Addressing Prime Minister Gaston Browne, diplomats and representatives of the Commonwealth Foundation, Mr Greene said the organisation’s strength lies in the diversity of its 56 member states.

He used the metaphor of a “Commonwealth quilt” to illustrate how different cultures, ideas and experiences can be brought together to form a unified vision.

“A quilt, by its very nature, is an artefact of collective effort,” he said. “Each piece retains its character while contributing to a stronger whole.”

Mr Greene said civil society plays a critical role in that process by bringing real-world perspectives and innovation to policymaking.

“While governments establish policy, it is civil society that brings authenticity and a people-centred approach to the Commonwealth,” he said.

He also praised the Commonwealth Foundation for supporting civil society participation across member states and helping to convene dialogue among diverse groups.

Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to host the CHOGM summit later this year, bringing leaders from across the Commonwealth to the twin-island nation to discuss governance, development and global cooperation.

Mr Greene said the success of the event would depend on a “whole-of-country” approach, encouraging citizens and organisations to participate through volunteerism, partnerships and advocacy.

He urged stakeholders to embrace the collaborative spirit of the initiative.

“Piece by piece, voice by voice, let us assemble a Commonwealth quilt that reflects the strength, resilience and unity of our peoples,” he said.

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