Commonwealth Day

Commonwealth Day is the annual celebration of the British Commonwealth, which comprises 54 member countries – nearly all the world’s English-speaking countries. They are united by the Charter of the Commonwealth, a statement of values, core beliefs and commitments officially signed into being by Queen Elizabeth II on 11 March 2013. This day is not a public holiday. The British Commonwealth was officially founded in 1931. The majority of Commonwealth countries are former British colonies, now independent, and most are located in Africa and Asia. Since 1977, Commonwealth Day has been marked by an Anglican service at London’s Westminster Abbey, attended by head of the Commonwealth, i.e. the British reigning monarch, who delivers a broadcast address to the Commonwealth nations.