The Commonwealth is seen by many as one of the late Queen Elizabeth II's greatest achievements. The Commonwealth emerged from the vestiges of the British empire, a voluntary association of free and independent nations who still wanted to maintain links not just with the UK but also with each other. In many ways, Her Majesty personified the organisation. She gave it life and continuity and held it together when differences threatened to tear it apart.

The BBC's Diplomatic Correspondent, James Landale, looks back over the late Queen's stewardship of this global institution.

Producer: Simon Elmes. Show less