- Acronym: CPLP
- Type: Intergovernmental Organization
- Membership: 9 member states, 19 associate observers, 6 consultative observers
- Establishment: Established on 17 July 1996
- Official Language(s): Portuguese
- Headquarters: Lisbon, Portugal
The Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) is a geopolitical entity consisting of nations where the official language is Portuguese, with the aim of fostering mutual friendship and cooperation among its members.
Community of Portuguese Language Countries History
The CPLP was created on 17 July 1996, with the signing of the Lisbon Agreement by seven Portuguese-speaking countries. It was established to deepen cultural, economic, and political cooperation among its member states where Portuguese is an official language. The organization has been instrumental in promoting the Portuguese language and culture and in creating a framework for common political and diplomatic coordination.
Community of Portuguese Language Countries Structure
The CPLP’s structure includes:
- The Conference of Heads of State and Government: The highest CPLP body, making decisions on overall policy, admission of new members, and appointment of the Executive Secretary.
- The Council of Foreign Ministers: Responsible for implementing the decisions of the Conference of Heads of State and Government.
- The Permanent Consultation Committee: Coordinates the activities of the CPLP and ensures the execution of the decisions made by higher bodies.
- The Executive Secretariat: The administrative body, responsible for implementing and executing CPLP programs and projects.
Community of Portuguese Language Countries Membership
Membership in the CPLP includes countries with Portuguese as an official language. Associate observer status is granted to countries and organizations interested in the promotion of the Portuguese language and in cultural and economic ties with the CPLP.
Community of Portuguese Language Countries Objectives
Promotion of the Portuguese Language
One of the primary objectives is to promote the Portuguese language as a fundamental vehicle for cultural expression and access to education and information.
Cultural Exchange
The CPLP seeks to strengthen cultural exchange and solidarity between member nations, enriching the global community with the diverse cultural heritage of the Lusophone world.
Political and Diplomatic Coordination
The organization aims to serve as a platform for political and diplomatic consultation among member states, focusing on strengthening the ties between them.
Cooperation and Development
The CPLP focuses on fostering cooperation in various domains such as education, health, science and technology, defense, agriculture, public security, and the economy.
Community of Portuguese Language Countries Funding
The CPLP is funded through contributions from its member states, according to a scale approved by the Conference of Heads of State and Government. Additional funding may come from projects, programs, and partnerships with other international organizations.
Community of Portuguese Language Countries Projects
Language and Culture Promotion
The CPLP conducts various initiatives to promote the Portuguese language and culture, including cultural festivals, literature fairs, and educational programs.
Economic Cooperation Initiatives
The organization undertakes projects aimed at fostering economic cooperation among member states, focusing on trade facilitation, investment opportunities, and business partnerships.
Community of Portuguese Language Countries Members
Member States
- Angola
- Brazil
- Cape Verde
- Guinea-Bissau
- Mozambique
- Portugal
- São Tomé and Príncipe
- Timor-Leste
- Equatorial Guinea
Associate Observers and Consultative Observers
Various countries and organizations across the world that maintain cultural, social, or economic ties with the CPLP nations.
The CPLP continues to be a key organization for cooperation among Portuguese-speaking countries, promoting the Portuguese language, cultural exchange, and socio-economic development. With its diverse projects and initiatives, the CPLP plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among its member states and observers, contributing to the global promotion of the Lusophone world.
