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The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) aims to promote internationally an understanding of the nature & workings of the Commonwealth, and of the factors which shape the lives of its peoples and the policies of its governments. Underlining the work of the RCS is the belief that an understanding of the Commonwealth is the key to creating successful multi-cultural societies across the world.

Royal Commonwealth Society
25, Northumberland Avenue
London WC2N 5AP
Tel +44 (0)20 7930 6733 Fax +44 (0)20 7930 9705
Email: info@rcsint.org www.rcsint.org

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The RCS arranges meetings and conferences on many aspects of international and Commonwealth affairs, and hosts a series of meetings as part of its public affairs programme. During the autumn of 2006 the theme will focus on education about the Commonwealth and in 2007, meetings will focus on themes such as communication within the Commonwealth, migration and faith. These events are held at the Commonwealth Club, London.

For more information visit www.rcsint.org/events

This is held on the second Monday in March for member countries to celebrate their links with one another and to the Commonwealth. A multi-faith Observance, organised by the RCS on behalf of the Council of Commonwealth Societies, is held at Westminster Abbey and usually attended by members of The Royal Family, Commonwealth diplomats, members of parliament and many UK schools.

For more information visit www.commonwealthday.com

The Commonwealth Essay Competition is an international writing project that inspires and gives a voice to thousands of young people each year, providing them with an opportunity to share their research, opinions, stories and dreams for the future. In 2006 entries were received from 6,000 young people throughout the Commonwealth.

The Competition is organised in four age bands:
* under 12 years
* 12-13
* 14-15 and
* 16-18
The deadline for essays to reach the RCS (for the 2007 competition) is March 1st 2007

For more information visit www.rcsint.org/essay

This is a joint initiative of the RCS and the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association. The competition recognises excellence in making a short film on a designated Commonwealth theme. There are two categories: Commonwealth broadcasters, and other programme makers in the Commonwealth.

For more information visit www.rcsint.org/vision

These Youth Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (YCHOGMs) bring young people together in a spirit of friendly competition for a day of debates and excitement, to role-play as Commonwealth leaders. The day reflects the shape of a real CHOGM, with discussions, lobbying and media activities allowing young people to enter into political debate from viewpoints different to their own. The 2006 UK Youth CHOGM was held in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and in 2007, YCHOGMs are expected to be held in Blackburn and London.

For more information visit href="http://www.rcsint.org/youthchogm" target="_blank">www.rcsint.org/youthchogm