India’s Approach as G20 President: Taking a Proactive and Inclusive Stance
India marks 365 days since assuming the G20 Presidency, reflecting on the proactive and inclusive approach it has taken. During its leadership, India has aimed to rejuvenate the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.’
At the start of India’s presidency, the global landscape was grappling with the challenges of recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic, climate threats, financial instability, and debt distress in developing nations, amid declining multilateralism. In response to these challenges, India sought to offer the world an alternative to the status quo, shifting from GDP-centric to human-centric progress.
Inclusivity has been a priority throughout India’s presidency. The African Union has been integrated as a permanent member of the G20, expanding the forum to encompass 80% of the global population.
India has also prioritized the domestic approach to the G20, making it a People’s Presidency that involves the 1.4 billion citizens of the country.
In terms of addressing sustainable development goals, India has delivered the G20 2023 Action Plan, emphasizing a cross-cutting, action-oriented approach to interconnected issues, such as health, education, gender equality, and environmental sustainability.
The G20 Declaration has highlighted India’s ambitious aims to create urgent, lasting, and equitable change. This includes addressing climate justice and equity, substantial financial and technological support from the Global North, and a focus on gender equality.
During India’s G20 Presidency, the country led deliberations on geopolitical issues, addressing the senseless killing of civilians and terrorism with a policy of zero tolerance.
India’s achievements during its presidency include revitalizing multilateralism, amplifying the voice of the Global South, championing development, and advocating for the empowerment of women.
As India hands over the G20 Presidency to Brazil, it does so with the conviction that its collective steps for people, planet, peace, and prosperity will resonate for years to come.