Every two years, Commonwealth leaders meet to discuss global and Commonwealth issues and to agree on collective policies and initiatives.  These summits provide a unique forum for consultation at the highest level of government.  They are organized by the host nation in collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat.

After a public opening ceremony and a formal Executive Session, the leaders – for the most part Presidents and Prime Ministers – meet privately in a ‘Retreat’ setting.  The atmosphere is informal, encouraging a full and frank exchange of views, and decisions are normally reached by consensus.  Many important Commonwealth initiatives have emerged from these Retreats.

Issues discussed include international peace and security, democracy, good governance, sustainable development, debt management, education, environment, gender equality, health, human rights, information and communication technology, law, multilateral trade issues, small states and youth affairs.

In November 2007 CHOGM took place in Kampala, Uganda.  The key theme was transforming Commonwealth societies to achieve political, economic and human development.  The next CHOGM will take place 27 – 29 November 2009 in Trinidad and Tobago.  The theme for the meeting is "Partnering for a More Equitable and Sustainable Future".