"The objects of the Society are to promote the increase and diffusion of knowledge respecting the peoples and countries of the Commonwealth; to maintain the best traditions of the Commonwealth; and to foster unity of thought and action in relation to matters of common interest." The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) is an international non-government organisation working to promote knowledge of the
Commonwealth of Nations. The RCS is supported by a worldwide membership with self governing branches, honorary representatives and affiliated organisations in over 52 countries. HISTORY:
The Royal Commonwealth Society has a distinguished history dating from 1868. The society has long been the main centre of the Commonwealth activity in Britain, providing at its London headquarters both a gathering place for people from across the Commonwealth and a venue for debate and meetings addressed by leading personalities. Over the years the Society has played an influential role in the evolution of the Commonwealth of Nations in the official and non-governmental sectors. A number of key Commonwealth organisations such as the Commonwealth Foundation, the Commonwealth human Rights Initiative and the Commonwealth Journalists Association were born as a result of meetings hosted by the Society. OBJECTIVES:
The Royal Commonwealth Society’s aim is to promote internationally and understanding of the nature and working of the Commonwealth of Nations and of the factors which shape the lives of its peoples and the policies of its governments. Underlying the work of the RCS is a belief that an understanding of the Commonwealth is a key to creating successful multi-cultural societies across the world. The Royal Commonwealth Society’s presence in Australia manifests itself in the form of autonomous societies in all States, the Australian Capital Territory, and the Northern Territory. As autonomous societies, these organisations have their own individual structures and rules, but exist and strive to further the interests of the Commonwealth of Nations in accordance with the provisions of the Royal Charter under which the RCS operates. Each RCS branch in Australia has its own unique approach to the furtherance of the Society’s aims and these different approaches result in a rich variety of branch activities, including social functions to mark significant Commonwealth dates, Commonwealth Day Observances based on that which takes place in Westminster Abbey, support for and promotion of the Commonwealth Essay Competition, youth Rallies, Student CHOGMs, High Commissioners’ Receptions, support for charities operating in Commonwealth countries, guest speakers on topics of relevance to the Commonwealth of nations and hospitality for students from commonwealth countries.
