Editorial | India at the G20

The 20th G20 Leaders’ Summit gets underway in Johannesburg, bringing together the world’s major economies to deliberate on pressing global challenges. This year’s agenda, economic growth, climate action, energy transitions, disaster resilience, and emerging technologies, reflect the issues shaping the future of humanity and the global economy. Notably, this is the fourth consecutive G20 meeting hosted in the Global South, at a time when developing countries are asserting a stronger voice in global governance. India’s participation carries particular significance, highlighting its role as a bridge between advanced economies and the developing world. The country’s emphasis on inclusive growth, climate justice, and equitable access to resources resonates strongly across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Climate action and energy transitions will be key topics. For nations like India, the shift to clean energy is both an environmental and economic necessity. The Summit provides a platform to advocate for fair financing mechanisms and technology sharing, areas where commitments from wealthier nations have often been limited. Disaster resilience will also be central, particularly for countries in the Global South that face the brunt of climate impacts despite minimal contributions to the crisis. Emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are expected to shape discussions on innovation and regulation. India’s advocacy for ethical, accessible, and well-regulated tech frameworks could influence global standards in the years ahead. Beyond formal sessions, bilateral meetings and the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders’ Meeting on the sidelines will provide opportunities to reinforce South–South cooperation and ensure developing countries’ priorities remain central to decision-making. As the Summit begins, India’s engagement underscores both responsibility and opportunity. While the G20 may not resolve every global problem, it remains one of the most influential platforms for shaping a sustainable, fair, and inclusive global order, and India has a pivotal role to play in guiding that conversation.