A charter "fit for purpose" : parliamentary consultation on the proposed Charter of the Commonwealth

Archived and Outdated Information: This publication is out of date and should be referenced for research or recordkeeping purposes only. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. You can request an alternate version of our publications by email at Accessibilite-accessibility@international.gc.ca or telephone at 1-800-267-8376. This report summarizes the Senate Committee’s consultation on the proposed Commonwealth Charter, following recommendations from the Eminent Persons Group and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Perth (2011). It examines the role and relevance of the Commonwealth, the need for a concise Charter that consolidates core values such as democracy, human rights, and good governance, and highlights comparative advantages like youth engagement, parliamentary traditions, and support for small states. The report provides recommendations to ensure the Charter is inclusive, accessible, and effective in strengthening the Commonwealth’s oversight and credibility.

Publisher

Global Affairs Canada

Resources

2

Catalogue metadata updated

2026-04-10