The G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, held on November 19, 2024, marked a significant shift in global governance, emphasizing the power of the Global South. Leaders such as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Chinese President Xi Jinping played prominent roles during the summit, which was themed 'Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.' This theme underscored the urgency of addressing economic disparities and fostering collaboration among nations. [2b1de3a4]
UN Secretary-General António Guterres had previously called for a 'spirit of consensus' among member nations ahead of the summit, criticizing Argentine President Javier Milei's opposition to multilateralism and climate agreements. He stressed that a divided G20 would diminish its global significance. [9f23ecdb]
In his keynote address, Xi Jinping highlighted China's role in global economic growth, boasting a 5.2% annual growth rate and emphasizing the success of China's poverty alleviation campaign, which has lifted 800 million people out of poverty. Xi's vision of 'common prosperity' reflects a collectivist worldview, promoting interdependence and shared development, particularly through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative. This approach contrasts sharply with the Western emphasis on individualism. [2b1de3a4, b1348260]
Lula proposed an ambitious alliance against hunger and poverty, aiming to benefit 500 million people by 2030. His initiative gained support from over 80 nations, positioning Brazil as a leader in advocating for social equity. The G20's final declaration called for a ceasefire in Gaza, although this proposal faced a veto from the United States, highlighting ongoing geopolitical tensions between G7 and BRICS nations. [2b1de3a4, cb714cf6]
Guterres had previously noted that 2024 is projected to be the hottest year on record, with severe climate impacts requiring immediate attention. He reiterated the importance of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in addressing global inequalities and advocated for reforms in the UN Security Council. [9f23ecdb]
The summit's outcomes signal a potential reorientation of global priorities towards addressing poverty and fostering equitable economic growth, aligning with Xi's call for a shift in global governance towards cooperation and mutual support in light of challenges like climate change and economic inequality. South Africa is set to host the next G20 summit in 2025, indicating a continued focus on the Global South's role in international affairs. [2b1de3a4, b1348260, cb714cf6]