- The commonwealth is dominated by the developed nations. This undermines policies/decisions made by the less developed members.
- Lacks adequate funds to finance its operations since most of the members are from the less developed countries.
- Political instability/civil wars in many member countries in Africa and Asia has affected the performance of the association in promoting peace/good governance.
- Members of the commonwealth have a divided loyalty/lack of commitment due to involvement in other organizations.
- Ideological differences between member countries/capitalism/communism make it difficult for the members to speak with one voice on matters of international concern.
- Personality differences between heads of states have negatively affected the association.
- The association lacks an executive authority to enforce its decision/it has no standing army of its own.
- Racial discrimination reflected by lack of free movement/restricted visa rules adopted by some countries has undermined social cohesion among the member states.
- Some member countries put their national interest before those of the association thus making it difficult for the association to achieve its objectives.