The G20 Development Ministerial Declaration, convened in Rio de Janeiro in July 2024, highlighted the critical role of addressing inequalities to achieve sustainable development. Recognizing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 SDGs, the declaration emphasizes the need to reduce inequalities (SDG 10) and ensure that no one is left behind. The Ministers acknowledge the intertwined crises of poverty, climate change, and economic slowdown, which have exacerbated inequalities, and commit to placing sustainable development at the heart of international cooperation efforts. Special attention was given to the empowerment and inclusion of all individuals, irrespective of their backgrounds, and the importance of equitable access to essential services and opportunities.
The declaration underscores the importance of decent work and social justice in combating inequality. It stresses the need for policies that promote equal opportunities, support productivity, and reduce income disparities to foster human well-being and inclusive economic growth. The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to helping developing countries integrate into global value and supply chains, emphasizing the critical role of human capital development. The G20 also aims to strengthen social protection systems, recognizing them as vital tools for reducing inequalities and enhancing resilience against global challenges.
Further, the declaration highlights the role of universal social protection, including adaptive measures, in mitigating risks and managing shocks and the need for trilateral cooperation and social justice. The Ministers commited to enhancing the coverage and responsiveness of national social protection programs to better address the needs of those in vulnerable situations. They also stressed the significance of inclusive, equitable, and quality education and lifelong learning opportunities, recognizing their essential role in breaking intergenerational cycles of inequality and supporting sustainable human development.
Finally, the declaration called for inclusive and reinvigorated multilateralism, emphasizing the need for greater representation of developing countries in global decision-making processes. It supports international development cooperation, including North-South, South-South, and Triangular cooperation, to build local capacities and strengthen institutions. The G20 reaffirms its commitment to promoting gender equality and empowerment, recognizing these as crucial for achieving social justice and contributing to global economic growth. The Ministers express appreciation for Brazil’s leadership in 2024 and anticipate continued progress under South Africa’s G20 Presidency in 2025.
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