G20 Summit in Johannesburg: A Call for Multilateralism Amid U.S. Absence

The 20th G20 Summit, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, on November 22-23, 2025, marked a significant moment as it was the first summit hosted on African soil. Premier Li Qiang of China emphasized the need for solidarity and cooperation among G20 economies to address global challenges, particularly in light of a sluggish economic recovery. He urged participants to uphold free trade and foster an open world economy, highlighting the rise of unilateralism and protectionism as major obstacles to international unity. Li's remarks were made during the summit's opening session, which focused on inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

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The summit, themed "Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability," was divided into three sessions addressing various global issues. Leaders discussed the importance of safeguarding the multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, and the need for reforms in global economic governance. Li called for enhancing the voice of developing countries and promoting a fairer international economic order. The summit culminated in the adoption of a leaders' declaration that addressed climate change, disaster resilience, and the empowerment of women and girls, despite the absence of the United States.

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The U.S. boycott of the summit, attributed to various geopolitical tensions and criticisms of South Africa's domestic issues, raised concerns about the effectiveness of multilateral diplomacy. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa noted that the adoption of the declaration, achieved without U.S. participation, signaled a strong commitment to multilateralism among the remaining G20 members. Analysts suggested that this development could enhance the influence of Global South countries, particularly China, in global governance.

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Critics of the U.S. stance argue that its absence from the summit reflects a broader trend of isolationism that undermines global cooperation. Some observers noted that the U.S. rejection of the summit's agenda, which focused on supporting developing countries, could alienate it from the majority of G20 members. Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, remarked that the U.S. position places it on the opposite side of most countries, particularly those in the Global South.

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• “In the face of a weak global economic recovery, we must work together in solidarity, firmly uphold free trade and build an open world economy,” — Li Qiang, Premier of China

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• “the adoption of the declaration from the summit sends an important signal to the world that multilateralism can and does deliver. It sends a message of hope and solidarity.” — Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa

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• “The multilateral platform cannot be paralyzed on the basis of the absence of someone who was invited,” — Ronald Lamola, South African Foreign Minister

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The G20 Summit in Johannesburg underscored a pivotal shift in global dynamics, with China and other Global South countries gaining prominence in international discussions. The consensus reached among the remaining G20 members, despite the U.S. boycott, reflects a growing commitment to multilateralism and cooperation in addressing shared challenges. As the world navigates complex geopolitical landscapes, the outcomes of this summit may shape future global governance frameworks.

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