In a significant event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the modern Commonwealth, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, Commonwealth Secretary-General, delivered the inaugural Commonwealth Lecture in Barbados. Speaking at the Cave Hill Campus, she highlighted the coinciding milestone of The University of the West Indies, also celebrating its 75th anniversary.
Reflecting on the achievements of the 56-member union governed by the Commonwealth Charter, Secretary-General Scotland emphasized the ongoing importance of collective efforts. Quoting Nelson Mandela, whom she admires, she urged celebrating milestones while focusing on future challenges.
She emphasized the Commonwealth's role as the world’s largest democratic association, bound by shared values outlined in its Charter. Amid global challenges like climate change, she advocated for collaborative solutions and transformative action.
Secretary-General Scotland underscored the devastating impact of climate crises on both small and large states, particularly highlighting the vulnerability of smaller nations with high debt burdens. She outlined initiatives by the Commonwealth Secretariat to assist member states in managing debts and accessing climate finance.
Additionally, she highlighted the Commonwealth's commitment to youth development, citing the updated Global Youth Development Index. Following her address, she engaged in a conversation with Jan Yves Remy, exploring the significance of digital technology, including artificial intelligence, in the Commonwealth's initiatives. She stressed the importance of preparing young people for the digital era, mentioning the Commonwealth Secretariat’s AI Academy, which offers free courses to citizens.
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