Regions

In 1949 the London Declaration recognised the British Monarch as the symbol of the free association of independent member nations and as Head of the Commonwealth. 2009 marks the 60th anniversary of this declaration that saw the foundation of the modern Commonwealth.

In 1952, The Queen assumed the role of Head of the Commonwealth from her late father, King George VI, the first monarch to hold the title. The Commonwealth was then an association of just eight members. Today there are 53 in all the regions of the world. Over the past 57 years Her Majesty has travelled extensively throughout the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth members represent 1.8 billion people (30% of the world population) and its purpose is to promote democracy, good government, human rights and economic development.

Select one of the regions above