A more systemic approach is needed to entrench citizen engagement in democratic governance, writes Christine Shahbenderian, 23, a Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, who argues that it is high time for us to do democracy differently.  “[The] key characteristic of democracy is the continuing responsiveness of the government to the preferences of its citizens, considered …

“Reinventing democracy in the digital era” Read More »

Cyprus is a small nation with a strategic location, writes Christine Shahbenderian, 23, a Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, who explores the nation’s potential as a partner and a stabilising force. Since the Neolithic times, Cyprus, shaped like a swordfish surfacing from the sea with its sharp tip and flared fins, has probably been one of …

“Strategic Cyprus and a better future” Read More »

Security and diplomacy are global concerns, especially when conflict or disaster strikes. But Christine Shahbenderian, 23, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, argues that humanitarian diplomacy has a strong role in global problem-solving. A defining feature of 21st century globalization is the increasing complexity of global relations and the rapidity with which information ricochets around …

“Humanitarian diplomacy provides vital action” Read More »

The theme of “an inclusive Commonwealth” struck a chord for Christine Shahbenderian, 23, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, who writes about her experience building inclusiveness at home. In light of this year’s theme of the Commonwealth, I have realised how important the concept of inclusiveness is for many contexts, including on regional and country …

“Building trust to build an inclusive Cyprus” Read More »

Building confidence between opposing parties is a crucial step in resolving conflict, writes Christine Shahbenderian, 24, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, as she looks at two important examples that employed the strategy.  Nelson Mandela once argued ‘if you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then …

“Confidence-Building Measures build peace” Read More »

Education is both a right and a critical opportunity, writes Christine Shahbenderian, 25, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, who argues it is also an essential but overlooked need for migrant children. Education constitutes among the most powerful tools that can provide children on the move with the right skills to achieve personal fulfillment, …

“The best antidote for lost opportunities” Read More »