The African Union Becomes a New Member of the G20
The G20 group of major industrial and emerging economies has welcomed the African Union (AU) as a new member. This announcement was made by Indian Prime Minister Narendara Modi during the opening of the G20 summit in New Delhi. India currently holds the presidency of the group of nations.
“In agreement with all of you, I would like to invite the chairman of the African Union to take his seat as a permanent member of the G20,” said Modi. The President of Comoros and current AU chairman, Azali Assoumani, approached Modi and embraced him.
A significant success for the Indian Prime Minister
The Indian Prime Minister is striving to position his country as a leader of the Global South. Therefore, the inclusion of the African Union as a member of the G20 is a crucial achievement for the summit.
55 countries are part of the African Union
Until now, the European Union, with its 27 member states, was the only regional organization that was a member of the G20. The AU consists of all internationally recognized African countries, as well as the internationally disputed territory of Western Sahara. In total, there are 55 member states.
The AU represents the interests of approximately 1.3 billion people and has the youngest and fastest-growing population in the world. It is estimated that Africa could have around 2.5 billion inhabitants by 2050. In comparison, the EU’s population is only around 450 million.
EU Council President Charles Michel and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the decision. “It is a pleasure to welcome the African Union as a new member of the G20,” said von der Leyen.
The G20 group already includes the EU, along with 19 of the world’s most robust economies. It serves as a vital platform for international economic cooperation and now addresses many other global issues, including counterterrorism, climate protection, and conflicts. Given the Russian aggression against Ukraine, the G20 is one of the few remaining forums where the West and Russia can meet directly.
With the inclusion of the African Union, the G20 will now have a stronger representation of the Global South, acknowledging the rising importance of African nations in the world economy. This decision also recognizes Africa’s immense potential for economic growth and development.
The African Union’s presence in the G20 will provide a platform for African nations to voice their concerns, advocate for their interests, and participate in global decision-making processes. It will allow them to contribute to shaping policies that affect not only their own continent but also the entire global community.
This development signifies a significant step towards a more inclusive and representative global governance structure. It reflects the recognition that economic progress and prosperity cannot be achieved without active involvement and representation of all regions and nations, especially those that have traditionally been marginalized.
The African Union’s membership in the G20 opens up opportunities for greater collaboration and cooperation between African countries and other major economies. It provides a platform for discussing issues of mutual interest, such as trade, investment, sustainable development, and poverty eradication.
Moreover, the AU’s integration into the G20 will enhance the African continent’s influence in shaping global economic policies, particularly those relating to trade, finance, and development assistance. It will enable African countries to bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the table, helping to ensure that global economic governance is more equitable and beneficial for all.
As the African Union takes its place as a permanent member of the G20, it represents a significant milestone in the continent’s quest for self-determination, economic empowerment, and global relevance. It is a testament to the progress Africa has made in recent years and highlights the promising future that lies ahead.
In conclusion, the inclusion of the African Union as a member of the G20 is a landmark decision that recognizes Africa’s growing significance on the global stage. It offers immense opportunities for cooperation, collaboration, and mutual understanding between African nations and the rest of the world. By amplifying the voices of African leaders, the G20 can work towards a more inclusive and prosperous global economy that benefits all nations.
