Identify five challenges facing the Commonwealth of Nations.

Answer Details

The Commonwealth of Nations is a voluntary association of independent states, most of which were formerly under British rule, joined together for co-operation and mutual benefit. It faces a number of challenges. Five of them are:

1. Lack of a common ideology and shared interests: The member states differ widely in political systems, ideologies, cultures and levels of development, so it is difficult for them to agree on common policies and to act with one voice.
2. Absence of coercive or enforcement power: The Commonwealth has no army and no binding legal authority over its members. Its decisions and resolutions are merely advisory, so it cannot compel members to comply, which weakens its effectiveness.
3. Wide disparity in wealth and development: There is a great gap between the few rich, developed members (such as Britain, Canada and Australia) and the many poor, developing members, and this inequality breeds tension and complaints of neglect.
4. Financial constraints: The organisation depends on contributions from members, many of whom are poor or default in their payments, so it often lacks sufficient funds to carry out its programmes.
5. Conflicts and disagreements among members: Political disputes, border conflicts and ideological differences among member states (and disagreements over issues such as apartheid, human rights and the conduct of particular members) have strained the association and led some to threaten or carry out withdrawal.
6. Domination by Britain and colonial memories: Some members feel that the association is still dominated by Britain and serves British interests, and lingering resentment over the colonial past reduces enthusiasm and unity.
7. Waning commitment and relevance: Members increasingly give priority to regional blocs (such as the EU, AU and ECOWAS), so commitment to the Commonwealth and its relevance have declined.

(Any five of the above are acceptable.)