In a world often divided, the G20 stands as a beacon of hope during times of crisis. It was born out of the urgent need to confront the global financial crisis of 2008, which affected us all, reminding us that we are interconnected in our struggles and aspirations.
Imagine leaders from diverse nations gathering not just to debate policies, but to build bridges of understanding and solidarity. They come together with a shared commitment to listen, empathise and find common ground on pressing issues such as climate change, economic stability and social justice. The G20 embodies the collective hope that, despite our varied backgrounds and beliefs, we can unite to create a better future for everyone. In the face of adversity, it showcases the power of collaboration and compassion.
As South Africa chairs the first-ever G20 meeting on African soil, we stand at a crossroads globally. The global landscape is marked by challenges — from crippling poverty and economic instability to the existential threat of climate change — that demand a united front. This is the context that inspired our theme for South Africa’s presidency, “Solidarity, equality and sustainability”. For us, the G20 presidency represents a valuable opportunity to engage in innovative thinking to address urgent global issues.
In his address on South Africa’s G20 presidency, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the necessity for collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors in confronting our shared challenges. This resonates deeply with me, especially in the context of international relations, where the interconnectedness of our economies and societies has become increasingly pronounced. South Africa’s emphasis on multilateralism is not just a political stance; it acknowledges the intricate web of dependencies among nations, which can either uplift or debilitate global communities.
The establishment of task forces focusing on inclusive economic growth, industrialisation, food security and the governance of AI reflects South Africa’s forward-thinking approach. These are essential components for developing resilient economies in the face of climate change and socioeconomic disparities. By addressing these priorities, we see South Africa laying the groundwork for actionable initiatives that can foster sustainable development across the continent and beyond. The outcomes and follow-through will be key throughout the year, as well as at the summit next year.
Brazil’s successful G20 presidency serves as an inspiration and a template for us. As we reflect on the G20’s achievements, this is our opportunity to repurpose past lessons into concrete strategies for the future. The proposed cost of capital commission could significantly benefit low-income countries, offering a chance to alleviate debt burdens that stifle development and hinder recovery from recent economic shocks, particularly those linked to the Covid pandemic.
A central theme in our discussions is the need for an overhaul of political and economic multilateral institutions. Many nations, particularly in Africa, are still dealing with the repercussions of economic shocks, insecurity and health crises. During UN secretary-general António Guterres’s visit to our country earlier this week, he echoed these same points. I found a strong alignment between our G20 vision and priorities and the vision presented by the secretary-general, especially as outlined in the Pact of the Future.
We are taking an important step toward enhancing democratic engagement and ensuring that those most affected by these issues are heard and play a vital role in shaping policy
This backdrop emphasises the importance of an inclusive G20 in the coming year. Comprehensive dialogue involving civil society and various stakeholders will be essential. I am fully committed to ensuring that civil society actors are actively engaged during the 2025 G20. As South Africa facilitates discussions through a G20 social forum, we are taking an important step toward enhancing democratic engagement and ensuring that those most affected by these issues are heard and play a vital role in shaping policy.
Finally, we see South Africa’s presidency as an opportunity to amplify the AU’s Agenda 2063, a blueprint for sustainable development and transforming Africa’s socioeconomic landscape. This marks a crucial moment for African rejuvenation, as we embrace our agency and assert our place on the global stage. By extension, we will prioritise African issues, as well as those from the Global South. This will emphasise developmental issues such as the cost of financing, the climate change crisis, the just energy transition — where the emphasis on “just” is vital — and the pressing challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality that many African countries are grappling with.
We hope South Africa can set a precedent for future G20 meetings, ultimately reinforcing a narrative of hope, resilience and collective action. We aim not only to be part of our continent’s upliftment but also to inspire a renewed commitment to equitable development across the globe.
The stakes are undeniably high, yet so too is the promise we can fulfil. By championing solidarity and sustainability, our presidency of the G20 holds the power to advocate fiercely for our people and ignite a global movement toward a more equitable and sustainable future.
This is our collective moment to pause and reflect on our roles in the intricate tapestry of our world; a clarion call to embrace unity as we confront the pressing challenges ahead.
Next year’s G20 summit will be a crucial platform for serious, urgent dialogue between the Global North and the Global South. Our challenges require us to forge pathways of collaboration, understanding and progress. It is a vital opportunity for global unity and sustainable progress.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.