Rio de Janeiro: The Group of Twenty (G20) Summit is set to take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with leaders from the world’s largest economies gathering to address global economic and social challenges. The summit, under Brazil’s presidency, will prioritize combating hunger, poverty, and inequality, as well as promoting sustainable development and reforming global governance structures.

Brazil’s G20 presidency has introduced a novel G20 Social Forum ahead of the main summit to amplify civil society’s role in shaping discussions. This aligns with the host nation’s emphasis on inclusivity and equity in global policymaking.

The G20 comprises 19 nations, including the United States, China, India, and Russia, alongside regional organizations like the European Union and the African Union. Together, the group represents 85% of global GDP and 75% of global trade, underscoring its significance in international economic cooperation.

Key Leaders to Attend, Russia Absent
US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to attend the summit, reinforcing the forum’s importance as a venue for high-stakes diplomacy. Russian President Vladimir Putin will not participate, citing concerns over potentially disrupting the event. However, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will represent Russia.

The absence of Putin comes against the backdrop of continued tensions over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Disagreements over the war have been a sticking point in recent summits, such as those in Bali (2022) and Delhi (2023), where leaders refrained from the traditional group photograph symbolizing unity.

Origins and Purpose of the G20
The G20 was established in 1999 in response to the Asian financial crisis, initially serving as a platform for finance ministers and central bank governors. It was later expanded to include heads of state and government in 2008 during the global financial crisis, evolving into a critical forum for addressing international economic and financial issues.

Challenges Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Geopolitical challenges, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and strained US-China relations, will likely influence the summit’s proceedings. Brazil’s focus on social issues, however, aims to steer discussions toward pressing global challenges such as inequality and sustainable growth.

As the summit convenes, all eyes will be on whether the G20 can bridge divides and deliver actionable solutions in a world increasingly defined by geopolitical fragmentation and economic uncertainty.