The Commonwealth is probably best known for its political work. It actively helps members put in place the institutions needed to support democracy. It assists countries in making sure their elections are free and fair, as with the current elections in Fiji which are being scrutinised by Commonwealth monitors, including Australia. It also supports efforts to strengthen legal processes, the sinews of good government.

At the same time, it is able to intervene when things go wrong by providing impartial advice and assistance in internal disputes. When a Commonwealth member faces challenges to democracy, the Commonwealth provides advice and assistance to steer the parties back on track. The situations in The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Lesotho and Zanzibar are cases in point.

But where the Commonwealth fails in gentle attempts to encourage one if its members chart their path back to democracy, it can and does bring stronger pressure to bear on the wayward through sanctions, expulsion or suspension. The Commonwealth has not been afraid to make the tough call when required. Apartheid South Africa was forced out in 1961, and Nigeria was suspended in 1995 until civilian government was restored. Pakistan was suspended in 1999 and Fiji in 2000 when democratic governments were overthrown.

To help Commonwealth members live up to their rigorous commitment to democracy, leaders established the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) in 1995. The Ministerial Group, of which Australia is a member, is proactive in addressing serious or persistent violations of core Commonwealth values, such as the rule of law, human rights, racial equality and democracy.

The Group reports to leaders on affected member countries, and its reports are acted upon. It was CMAG that intervened to aid the Solomon Islands during its civil unrest in mid-2000. CMAG also conducted the investigations resulting in the Commonwealth's decision to suspend Fiji and Pakistan.

These measures, both positive and negative, hit the mark. All Commonwealth nations are keen to be seen to live up to our shared values and to avoid the Commonwealth taking public action against them. The value of Commonwealth approval is obvious from the requests of expelled or suspended nations to return once they have met the necessary qualifications. South Africa was permitted to re-join in 1994 when it was clear that apartheid had been dismantled. Nigeria returned to the fold in 1999.

February 2002

For further information:

Contact: Terry Walls, Media Information Officer, CHOGM 2002 Task Force
Mobile: 0419 606 107
E-mail terry.walls@pmc.gov.au

Prepared by: CHOGM 2002 Task Force
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet