Small States and the Commonwealth

Abstract

The Commonwealth has taken a particular interest in small states and has become the major advocate of their cause in the international system. This article traces the emergence of an interest in small states and the provision made within the Commonwealth to address their concerns. These are examined in outline and the core interests of small states are identified. Recent actions taken by the Commonwealth Secretariat to promote their interests are then examined in detail. Three areas are identified: advocacy of their cause through development of the concept of vulnerability; policy advice in governance and economic development, with a focus on the joint study with the World Bank on the economic problems of small states; and the provision of technical assistance in a broad array of projects. The conclusion identifies five reasons why the Commonwealth has taken a particular interest in small states and argues that it will continue to give them high priority.