The Royal Commonwealth Society seeks to promote an understanding of the modern Commonwealth amongst young people of all faiths and backgrounds. Each year the Society holds a Youth CHOGM, which is a simulation of the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The First UK National Youth CHOGM was held at Marlborough House, London in March 2004. The day involved over 80 young people between 14 and 24 from across the UK and ten other Commonwealth countries. Following the success of the first year the RCS is developing a second phase of Youth CHOGMs and hopes to establish a regular programme throughout the UK and the wider Commonwealth.

The day reflects the shape of a real CHOGM, with an opening ceremony and closing ceremony and different debates allowing young people to enter into political debate from the viewpoint different from their own. The young participants debate a wide range of issues, which change each year. Some past topics include issues of international security, democracy and human rights, HIV/AIDS, global warming, world trade and poverty. Freedom of expression and the role of the media and discrimination, whether racial, sexual or religious, have also been discussed.

The young people chosen are representative of the UK population in terms of faith, gender and culture. The Youth CHOGM provides an excellent forum for young people of different faiths and backgrounds to meet and exchange views, to challenge themselves and each other and to engage in positive dialogue and interaction.

Project type

• Youth groups

Region

• National