FGV has played a crucial role in several G20 fronts, from planning events and defining national priorities to participating in engagement groups, such as the T20, W20, and O20. These activities are carried out in close collaboration with the Federal Government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE), and other entities involved in the organization, covering all federation levels.

Rio de Janeiro is hosting numerous G20 meetings, culminating in the Summit of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for the 18th and 19th of November.

To facilitate these events, the National Coordination of G20 Brazil is headquartered at FGV, where around 100 diplomats, both Brazilian and foreign, will be involved in organizing the activities.
 

What is the G20 and why is it important in the global stage?

The G20, or Group of Twenty, is an international forum compromising 19 countries, the European Union, and the African Union. It represents more than 80% of the world’s GDP and 75% of global trade. Its importance lies in the ability to bring together the world’s major economies to discuss and coordinate economic and financial policies, addressing global challenges such as financial crises, trade, energy, climate, and sustainable development.

How was the G20 created and what were the group’s initial goals?

The G20 was created in 1999 in response to the 1997 Asian financial crisis. Initially, the group brought together finance ministers and central bank presidents to promote economic and financial cooperation among the world’s major economies. Initial objectives included the stabilization of the global financial market and the prevention of future economic crises.

Which countries are members of the G20 and how are they selected?

The G20 members include South Africa, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, South Korea, the United States, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Russia, Turkey, the European Union and the African Union. The selection is based on the economic representativeness and geographical importance of the members.

How do the G20 decisions impact the global economy?

G20 decisions influence the economic policies of member countries and guide global actions. The group promotes policies for sustainable economic growth, financial stability, and international cooperation. Its decisions can affect people’s disposable income and the price of consumer items.

How does the G20 differ from other international organizations, like the IMF or the UN?

Unlike the IMF and the UN, G20 does not have a permanent or fixed staff structure. Its presidency is annual and rotates among members, with the presiding country establishing a temporary secretariat during its term.

What are the priorities of Brazil’s G20 presidency?

The priorities of the Brazilian G20 presidency include:

  1. Social Inclusion and Combating Inequality: Focus on fighting hunger, poverty, and inequality.
  2. Sustainable Development: Promotion of sustainable development in its economic, social, and environmental dimensions, including energy transitions.
  3. Reform of Global Governance: Advocacy for the reform of global governance institutions, such as the United Nations and multilateral development banks.

The Brazilian presidency of the G20 has created three main task forces, which reflect its priorities:

  1. Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty: Focused on fighting hunger and poverty globally.
  2. Global Mobilization Against Climate Change: Aimed at addressing climate change and promoting sustainability.
  3. Finance and Health: Directed to improve global health and financial management.
     

How is work structured within the G20?

The G20 Summit of Heads of State and Government is an annual meeting where leaders of the world’s largest economies meet to discuss and approve agreements negotiated throughout the year. This event marks the conclusion of the work conducted by the country holding the group’s rotating presidency. Traditionally, a statement is negotiated and issued.

The G20 Brazil Summit of Heads of State and Government will take place on November 18 and 19 at the Museum of Modern Art (MAM) in Rio de Janeiro. 
 

How is work structured within the G20?

 

The work within the G20 is divided into several tracks and working groups, each focused on different areas of global interest:

  1. Sherpa Trail: Involves multiple dimensions and includes several ministries. It comprises 15 working groups that address topics such as sustainable development, health, education, employment, and more.
  2. Finance Track: Focused on specific topics under the responsibility of the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank. Currently, it has eight working mechanisms, including finance, infrastructure, and trade.
  3. Engagement Groups: Involve civil society and specific sectors, such as:
  • Business 20 (B20)
  • Labor 20 (L20)
  • Woman 20 (W20)
  • Oceans 20 (O20)
  • Labour 20 (L20)
  • Science 20 (S20)
  • Youth 20 (Y20)
  • Civil 20 (C20)
  • Urban 20 (U20)