What it's all about

Every two years, the heads of the 53 Commonwealth countries meet for a few days to discuss important issues and to agree on policies and initiatives.

The leaders hold talks on issues relating to democracy, good governance, sustainable development, education, environment, gender equality, health, human rights, information and communications technology, law, small states and youth.

This year's meeting is taking place in Malta between November 25 and 27 and over the next six weeks The Sunday Times will provide you with information on everything that's happening as the island prepares itself for 3,000 visitors.

Commonwealth leaders have met regularly for more than a century, although CHOGM, in its current form, has been held since 1971.

Special parallel events involving non-governmental organisations, business and youth now coincide with each CHOGM. At the Malta CHOGM, the events include the Commonwealth Youth Forum (November 16 to 23), the Commonwealth People's Forum (November 21 to 25) and the Commonwealth Business Forum (November 22 to 24).