The Commonwealth in Action
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Protecting human rights
The Harare Declaration of 1991 confirmed the association's commitment to the protection of fundamental human rights. Commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights was endorsed at the CHOGMs in South Africa in 1999, and in Australia in 2002.
To prevent exploitation of children and to promote their rights, the Commonwealth encourages all its members to implement the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It has also drawn up a curriculum on human rights and a teacher's guide, which can be adapted for use in member countries.
Encouraging freedom of speech
People must be free to express their opinions and to criticise government actions. One way they do this is through the media. Newspapers, radio and television have a vital role to play in any democracy – they help to make the government accountable to its citizens. Throughout the Commonwealth there is a vigorous tradition of journalism and broadcasting – and the common use of English means there is ample opportunity for co-operation.
Peace and order
Wars between or within countries have terrible effects on people. It is only when there is peace that people can improve their lives.
The Commonwealth tries to resolve disputes and conflicts within and between its members as soon as possible. Sometimes a member country seeks help from the Commonwealth Secretary-General in solving a dispute. They do this because the Commonwealth is seen as a friendly, non-threatening organisation. It has credibility and can call on very experienced people to help solve problems.
If there is trouble in a country, the Secretary-General often visits himself, or sends an envoy from another Commonwealth country. The aim is to persuade the two sides in the dispute to talk to each other and solve their problems, before open conflict breaks out.
When violent conflict breaks out, then the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) meets. This group is made up of eight Commonwealth foreign ministers. They decide what should be done.
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