Continuing a tradition initiated by the GSPN co-founder, FOGGS (Foundation for Global Governance and Sustainability), we warmly invite you to take part in our upcoming Open Consultation Monday:
📅 9 February 2026 | 🕒 4:00 PM Cape Town time (GMT +2)
💬 Topic: What is the future of the G20?
🔗 Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/p_swKteYRxGxgaCIzXcMjQ
Following South Africa’s hosting of the G20, the presidency now shifts to the United States. This transition, however, has been accompanied by two developments that raise fundamental questions about the future direction, coherence and legitimacy of the G20 itself.
First, the United States has indicated that South Africa has not been invited to participate in the G20 process during 2026, despite South Africa being a full member of the forum and in the absence of any collective opposition from other G20 members. This unilateral action challenges long-standing norms of inclusivity, consensus and sovereign equality that have underpinned the G20 since its inception.
Second, the United States has signalled a desire to move away from the developmental priorities within the G20, in favour of a narrower focus on what it defines as core economic concerns. This raises important questions about whether the G20 is shifting from a forum that balances macroeconomic stability with development, equity and inclusion, to one with a more restricted and contested mandate.
This consultation will reflect on what these developments mean for the future of the G20: its credibility as a multilateral forum, its capacity to bridge Global North–Global South divides, and its continued relevance in an increasingly fragmented global order.
We look forward to having you with us for this important discussion.
Global South Perspectives Network 
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