Commonwealth Foundation

06/08/2026

Our new strategy prioritises the right that protects all others: freedom of expression.

Investigative journalist Neha Dixit examines the changing threats to independent voices and why protecting open dialogue has never been more important.

Read the article:

Threats to freedom of expression are changing. The familiar dangers are still here: journalists and activists being jailed, publications shut down, and books banned. Many […]

14/07/2026

We're seeking a civil society representative from the Pacific region to join the Commonwealth Foundation as an Advisory Governor until June 2027.

Our Civil Society Advisory Governors bring regional perspectives and expertise to the Foundation's Board of Governors, helping ensure our work reflects the priorities and experiences of civil society across the Commonwealth.

This is a voluntary role (reasonable expenses are covered) requiring approximately half a day each month, plus occasional travel.

Applications close at 1pm BST on 27 July 2026.

Learn more about the role and apply: https://commonwealthfoundation.com/job_vacancy/civil-society-advisory-governor-pacific-region/

Please consider applying or sharing this opportunity with your networks.

Background The Commonwealth Foundation has a tradition of involving civil society in its governance. Five Civil Society Advisory Governors—distinguished civic voices, each representing a region of the […]

08/07/2026

Every five years, we lay out a new plan of action for how we’ll support civil society across the Commonwealth to meet the world’s most complex challenges.

Our mission is clear: equip communities with the democratic, economic and climate resilience they need to respond to a rapidly shifting global landscape marked by rising inequality, more frequent economic shocks and geopolitical tensions.

It is in this context that we have developed our new 5-Year Strategic Plan (2026–2031). It sets out how we will support civil society, grassroots communities and creative practitioners to take collective action and shape discourse and policy in Commonwealth states.

In the coming weeks, we’ll explore on this channel how we can meet this moment to strengthen civic infrastructure and ecosystems together.

📄 Read the full plan: https://commonwealthfoundation.com/strategic-plan-2026-2031

02/07/2026

How can civil society help shape the future of the Commonwealth?

Ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth People's Forum in Antigua and Barbuda this November, our Director-General joined ABS Television/Radio to discuss preparations for the Forum, its aims, and how this year's CHOGM theme (Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth) will be reflected throughout the programme.

📺 Watch the interview live at 8pm AST (12am GMT):
https://www.facebook.com/abstvradio/live_videos

25/06/2026

We provide grants for projects that strengthen collaboration between civil society and decision-makers and support more inclusive and effective policy processes.

The call for applications will open later this year. Learn more here:

https://commonwealthfoundation.com/grants/annual

15/06/2026

The 2026 Commonwealth People’s Forum will take place in Antigua and Barbuda this November.

The People’s Forum is an important part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, bringing together citizens from across the Commonwealth to exchange ideas, celebrate diverse cultures, and help shape policy and practice. The discussions held at the Forum will help shape our engagements with Commonwealth leaders.

Register for updates and learn how you can participate: https://actionnetwork.org/forms/stay-updated-commonwealth-peoples-forum/

11/06/2026

Do you work to influence policy or engage decision-makers?

Our grants programme funds civil society organisations across the Commonwealth. We provide up to £60,000 for projects lasting up to two years.

Applicants should have at least three years’ experience in advocacy and participatory governance.

The next grant call will open later this year. Sign up here to learn more:
https://commonwealthfoundation.com/grants/annual

09/06/2026

Submissions for the Commonwealth Quilt have now closed.

We received more than 1,000 creative interpretations of the theme ‘Thread.’ Thank you to everyone across the Commonwealth who shared their creativity, stories and perspectives.

All submissions will now be reviewed before being displayed in the virtual Commonwealth Quilt. A selection of works will also be exhibited in Antigua and Barbuda during the 2026 Commonwealth People’s Forum.

Stay tuned for the launch of the virtual quilt and the journey towards the People’s Forum:

https://actionnetwork.org/forms/stay-updated-commonwealth-peoples-forum/

01/06/2026

🪡 The everyday thread: what do your hands already know?

In this new creative exercise, Selina Tusitala Marsh, Commonwealth Poet Laureate, encourages you to find inspiration in what your body already carries.

It’s often the routines, rituals, and rhythms passed down through the generations that dictate your life.

Share in the comments: what everyday act connects you to your story?

Submissions close 9 June. Submit to the Commonwealth Quilt here: https://commonwealthfoundation.com/how-to-make-a-commonwealth-quilt/