It has been a huge privilege to serve CLGF, the Commonwealth and the international community over the past 40 years, with half of that time dedicated to the promotion of local democracy and better services to our local communities. My professional career has been immensely rewarding: remarkable people I have met, some of them great national leaders as well as some very ordinary people, struggling in their own way to make a better life for their families. Read More

CLGF says goodbye to SG Carl Wright
Dr Carl Wright retires from CLGF after 21 years of service on 31 July 2016, working internationally for over 40 years and takes on the role of CLGF Secretary-General Emeritus. The 2016 CLGF Board and participants at the subsequent CLGF Marlborough House reception on 12 July warmly acknowledged his service both to local government in the Commonwealth and internationally. HRH, The Prince of Wales said of Carl’s 40 years working in international and Commonwealth institutions ‘This ..is a remarkable record of service by any measure, and I can only thank him for all that he has done for the people of the Commonwealth over that time’. A special message on the occasion of Carl’s retirement was also received from UNDP Administrator, Rt Hon Helen Clark, who highlighted his role as ‘one of the greatest advocates of the role and importance of local authorities and local development ‘ and ‘ a passionate champion for the Commonwealth’, and looking forward to UNDP working with him in his new role. Read More