Fact Sheet: Commonwealth and Small States

It is only natural that the Commonwealth pays special attention to the interests of small states - 32 of the Commonwealth's 54 members are small states.

Small States are more vulnerable than larger developing countries to shocks as well as threats to their sovereignty, security and natural resources. Many find it difficult to access markets and assistance. Individually they lack negotiating power.

The Commonwealth recognises these challenges. It has proved a most effective advocate for Small States and source of technical assistance. Every year Small States receive some worth $35 million of technical assistance from the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation. In addition the Secretariat promotes high-level attention to the needs of Small States, through analysis and advocacy. A major Commonwealth/World Bank Report (2000) sought to help small states meet the challenges of a global economy. The report didn't just analyse the problem - in the practical style that typifies Commonwealth work, it identified an ongoing work program for the small states themselves and for the international community to address the problems identified. The Ministerial Group on Small States, chaired by Mr Downer, will review progress and identify future Commonwealth action to help Small States.

The Commonwealth has also acted to improve the visibility of small states in world affairs, for example by providing office facilities in New York for Commonwealth small states which would otherwise not have the means to be represented there.

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