For the first time ever, we'll be running an interactive space to support the Commonwealth People's Forum in November. The People's Forum has been designed to offer opportunities for us to join the conversation with Commonwealth governments, and help them decide their priorities. Our blog will ensure that these opportunities extend to those who are unable to attend the event.

BRINGING THE COMMONWEALTH TOGETHER
Every year, Commonwealth heads of state and government leaders meet at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to discuss the issues and social situations facing their countries. This year, the meeting will follow on from the Commonwealth People's Forum, a week-long event that's designed to inform the CHOGM agenda. Not only will it open the debate, the Forum will cross cultures to bring together social concerns and solutions that will help members of this global community to support each other. Topics for discussion will include the environment, human rights, economic development, education, health and cultural identity.

THE PEOPLE’S BLOG
As part of the Forum, we’ve created the People's Blog, which will report on the event with pictures, film clips, reports, and transcripts. Led by a team of professionals, the blog will be regularly updated with thought-provoking articles and inspiration. It will also be interactive, with space for you to comment, and for bloggers to respond. Taking the event online helps us to connect with thousands more people, and in a way that keeps the debate alive with questions, answers and opinions.

WHY A PEOPLE’S BLOG?
We want to ensure that this year’s CHOGM is inclusive. More than ever, we want it to involve you and your thoughts. Social change happens because people, whoever they are, work together. This is why we’ve created the Commonwealth People’s Blog, an interactive area to encourage debate, inspire new thought, and record the views of anyone who wants a voice in their country’s future.  

THE PEOPLE’S PLACE
The People' s Forum includes another interactive initiative, the People's Place. Here you can share your thoughts, ask questions, discuss your ideas, network with other professionals, and be inspired by the creative expression of Commonwealth citizens from around the world. The space will include workshops, films, and performances, some designed to challenge our stereotypes about musical heritage. All this, plus internet booths, where you can chat online with those who can't attend the event and be a part of the interactive blog.

JOIN THE DEBATE TODAY
Find out more about the plans and debates that are happening around the People's Forum. Visit the People's Blog, post your questions, and help to build the global discussion around this year's Commonwealth themes.