The Commonwealth Peace Prize will be awarded to an outstanding peacemaker with a strong history of religious engagement in conflict resolution, the promotion of social cohesion and sustainable peace.
The prize, organised and awarded by the Khalili Foundation in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat, is part of the Commonwealth Faith Festival and Commonwealth Faith Initiative.
Commonwealth Peace Prize
The award aims to:
build capacity and raise awareness of effective youth-led and intergenerational partnerships that promote peace across the Commonwealth’s diverse geographic, cultural, religious and ethnic groups.
promote dialogue and innovative methods of peace building to foster greater harmony in the Commonwealth.
Eligibility Criteria
Institutions are not eligible to receive the award.
The award winner will be a living, distinguished, long-serving Commonwealth citizen, over 30 years of age, who:
is considered a respected and trusted mediator between parties in conflict, with a long and strong track record of successful peacemaking in Commonwealth societies;
has established sustainable mechanisms, institutions or processes of dialogue, which, based on objective assessment, have contributed to the ultimate conclusion of a conflict, lasting peace, social cohesion or any other observed positive change;
in pursuing these efforts, has consistently used their significant influence to promote the Commonwealth values of tolerance, respect, understanding, moderation, celebration of cultural, racial, ethnic diversity and religious freedom; And
used the principles of religious faith and/or belief in the Commonwealth Charter to create a positive and sustainable peace with the goal of free and democratic societies and inclusive development.
How to submit an application
Applications will close on 17 January 2025 at 23:59 GMT.
Contact your High Commission in London or an accredited Commonwealth organization to submit a formal 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 be awarded the prize and a financial reward of £50,000 to continue their important work.
The selection process
As part of the Commonwealth Faith Festival project, a Commonwealth Peace Prize committee will prepare the first list of candidates to be considered by a jury. A high-level jury will select a winner in February 2025.
The Secretary-General will announce the winner at a special ceremony during Commonwealth Week in 2025. The winner will receive a citation and award letter outlining a financial award of £50,000 that will be used to continue their work. The final list of selected candidates will not be published. However, shortlisted candidates may be invited to participate in Commonwealth Faith Festival activities. Contact Us
For more information, please contact Mr. Mr Layne Robinson, Head of Social Policy Development, or Dr Terri-Ann Gilbert-Roberts, Research Manager, at PeacePrize@commonwealth.int.