Evolution of Commonwealth Democratic Values (PDF)
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Evolution of Commonwealth Timeline Democratic Values Signed in 2013, the Commonwealth Charter expresses the commitment of member countries to the development of of free and democratic societies and the promotion of peace and prosperity for all. Democracy was originally articulated as a core shared value at the first Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 1971. It was later given renewed emphasis at CHOGM in Harare 1991, where member re-affirmed their ‘fundamental political values’. For our Overview timeline and and other themed timelines, go to: thecommonwealth.org/electoral-support DATE CATEGORY EVENT DESCRIPTION 1971 Declarations Singapore Heads agreed on a set of ideals which were and Principles / Principles sets out embraced by all members and provide a basis for Commonwealth Commonwealth’s peace, understanding and goodwill among all nations Values and people. collective values 1989 Declarations Kuala Lumpur Heads agreed that the Commonwealth could and Principles / Communiqué help strengthen democracy in member countries Commonwealth through 'a facility for mounting observer missions'. Values 1991 Declarations Harare Declaration Heads re-affirmed their commitment to the values and Principles / of the Singapore Principles and set out how to apply Commonwealth them in the post-Cold War post-apartheid era. Values 1995 Declarations The Millbrook Heads agreed to establish a Commonwealth and Principles / Commonwealth Ministerial Committee Action Group (CMAG) to Commonwealth Action Programme review violations of the Harare Principles. Values on the Harare Declaration (CMAG) 2003 Declarations Aso Rock Heads recognised development and democracy and Principles / Declaration on as mutually reinforcing. 'Broad-based prosperity Commonwealth Development creates the stability conducive to the promotion of Values democracy; and that strong democratic institutions and Democracy: better promote development'. Partnership for Peace and Prosperity D17109 DATE CATEGORY EVENT DESCRIPTION 2007 Declarations Heads of One of the key criteria for membership was that an and Principles / Government agreed applicant country must demonstrate commitment Commonwealth to revised criteria for to democracy and democratic processes, including Values free and fair elections. membership 2013 Declarations Commonwealth The first paragraph of the charter states: and Principles / Charter ‘We recognise the inalienable right of individuals to Commonwealth participate in democratic processes, in particular Values through free and fair elections.’ D17109.