Reflections on the G20 Rio de Janeiro Leaders' Declaration: How Can Promises Be Translated into Action?

The #G20Summit held on November 18–19 in Rio de Janeiro represents a significant commitment by the 20 countries that account for almost 80% of the global population and 75% of the gross world product. I closely follow the policy discussions each year in preparation for these summits, through think tank activities I participate in.

This year, I am particularly drawn to the #G20 Leaders' Declaration issued under #Brazil’s presidency (which you can read at the following link), focusing on three priorities addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, and particularly those facing the Global South:

1. Social inclusion and the fight against hunger and poverty
2. Sustainable development, energy transitions, and climate action
3. The reform of global governance institutions

The current G20 declaration reflects the aspirations of many for a global, multilateral order grounded in principles such as equality, freedom, justice, peace, and prosperity. Yet, from many conversations I’ve had across different parts of the world, I sense a growing apathy and a loss of agency among various actors who are losing hope in the struggle for a better world.

The declaration appears to encompass all major global priorities, expressed through the right words, promises, and commitments. However, the pressing question remains: will these promises be implemented?

There is a clear gap between the declaration, portraying the countries’ commitments, and reality. Many of the promises in this G20 declaration have been reiterated for years with little tangible progress. Today, global debt has exceeded $34 trillion, 700 million people live in extreme poverty, the wealthiest 1.5% own 50% of global wealth, over 80 countries are grappling with wars, armed conflicts, or civil violence, and we have recently witnessed significant undermining of the United Nations.

Turning these promises into reality faces one major challenge: Leadership. This year, at least two leaders of major countries who attended have already been ousted, while five others face upcoming elections with a high probability of being replaced by far-right leaders. We are already seeing an increase in far-right influence within the G20, with some of the current leaders characterized by radical conservatism, authoritarianism, and ultra-nationalism. Several of these 20 countries are also experiencing deep polarization within their societies, coupled with an erosion of human rights protections.

I am particularly intrigued by what the political composition of the G20 leadership will look like in 2025. Next year’s G20 presidency will be held by South Africa. What could the declaration include with this new makeup of leadership? And what will have been achieved by then? There is an increased risk of such declarations becoming mere ink on paper.

What can we do to counter the growing apathy among actors who still believe in a better world? How can we push for the translation of these declarations into reality? Which existing platforms—or new ones—can be organized to support the implementation of these promises?

As an engaged consulting firm, Beyond Group , which has worked with governments and stakeholders in over 30 countries in the Global South and several in the Global North, we remain committed to our mission of assisting governments in delivering on their promises. Yet, we continue to ask ourselves: what more can we do to provide more efficient support to governments and development partners in developing solutions that translate the G20 declaration into reality? How can we assist in their implementation?

This will be a central topic of discussion at our upcoming Annual Retreat in January 2025. If you have thoughts on priorities or approaches, feel free to send me a message—I’d love to hear from you.

Picture credit: Eraldo Peres/AP