Commonwealth Peace Prize submission deadline extended to January 2025

The announcement of the first-ever Commonwealth Peace Prize sparked an overwhelming response, and eligible applicants now have until January 17, 2025 to submit their nominations for the inaugural prize.

The price is part of Faith in the Commonwealth Initiativea partnership launched in 2017 with the Khalili Foundation amplifying the efforts of young people – in collaboration with older people – to promote peace and maintain harmony among the diverse cultural, indigenous and religious groups of the Commonwealth.

Announcing the extension at a briefing of high commissioners and Commonwealth Accredited Organizations in London, 6 December 2024, the Secretary General of the Commonwealth, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, highlighted the role of peace in achieving just, just and peaceful societies. She said:

“Cultivating a culture of peace is at the heart of Commonwealth Charter. More than a decade ago, our Member States affirmed their shared belief that peace, security, respect and understanding – the quintessential Commonwealth values ​​– are essential to the progress and prosperity we all seek. The Commonwealth Peace Prize embodies these ideals.

She continued:

“I encourage you, our Member States and Commonwealth-accredited organizations to take this opportunity to nominate distinguished individuals whose efforts have bridged divisions, fostered understanding and helped communities thrive in unity and harmony.

Recognizing Pioneering Peacemakers

The award, which will be presented every three years, is part of a series of initiatives to recognize long-time peacebuilders who have harnessed the power of faith to engage in positive dialogue, resolve conflicts and serve as role models for young people.

Founder and Chairman of the Khalili Foundation, Sir David Khalili, encouraged all to view faith as more than a religious concept, saying:

“Faith can be a powerful peacemaker. We are delighted to partner with the Commonwealth to design, fund and deliver this Commonwealth Peace Prize. We hope this will inspire people across the Commonwealth and beyond to use faith as a force for peace and harmony.

The Commonwealth Peace Prize was launched on International Day of Peace 2024 and aims to recognize distinguished peacebuilders with a strong record of faith-inspired engagement in resolving conflict and creating lasting peace in the Commonwealth.

Next steps

• Applications close January 17, 2025.
• Contact your High Commission in London or a Commonwealth Accredited Organization to submit an official application on your behalf. Make sure your application includes a formal letter of recommendation and an impactful biography.
• The Secretary-General will announce the winner at a special ceremony during Commonwealth Week in March 2025.
• The winner will receive the prize and a financial reward of £50,000 to use to continue their important work.

Find out more about the Commonwealth Peace Prize

Media contact

• Ijeoma Onyeator Communications Officer, Communications Division, Commonwealth Secretariat

• E-mail