Leading the charge In the G20 driver’s seat, SA has a chance to champion a new deal As SA takes the helm of the G20, it has a rare opportunity to shape the global agenda while amplifying the voices of the Global South. This is not just a chance for SA to distinguish itself on the world stage but to leave a legacy of pragmatic, inclusive and solutions-driven leadership. The current global political landscape is marked by disorder and unpredictability – as seen last year in South Korea, where political turmoil and attempts at imposing martial law exposed the fragility of one of the world’s most developed democracies; and in Syria, where a brutal regime was unexpectedly toppled, leaving uncertainty about what comes next. We face a choice – to ‘go with the flow’ or drive towards a new order. The contours of this new order are already visible in the shifting balance of global political power towards middle and emerging economies – as amplified by the Indonesian and Brazilian G20 presidencies. SA’s leadership of the G20 offers a vital opportunity to build on this momentum and champion transformative change. We have a few key priorities. First, SA must establish itself as a voice for the Global South. We can serve as a bridge between developed and emerging economies by advocating for equitable trade policies, reforms in global financial institutions and expanded access to development financing. This aligns with our domestic priorities and resonates with many G20 members seeking a more balanced and inclusive global economic system. Second, SA’s experience with the Just Energy Transition Partnership gives it the authority to lead discussions on climate action. This is a chance to push for solutions that prioritise justice, ensuring the move to green(er) economies does not leave vulnerable communities behind. By championing better climate finance for adaptation and mitigation, SA can address an area where trust between the Global North and South has faltered. Third, it can amplify the African agenda. The African Continental Free Trade Area is an opportunity for economic growth and integration across the continent. By highlighting Africa’s infrastructure needs, we can rally support for investment that will be of benefit for decades. The reform of global governance structures is another critical area. Institutions such as the UN, the WTO and the IMF often fail to adequately represent the interests of developing countries. Building on the groundwork laid by Brazil, SA must advocate for a fairer and more inclusive system that reflects the shifting dynamics of global power. At the same time, the Bretton Woods institutions, despite their limitations, retain significant convening power and policy influence. Strategically leveraging these strengths can catalyse private investment in underserved regions and drive the systemic changes needed while pressing for deeper structural reform. SA’s leadership must also address pressing systemic challenges such as inequality, poverty and climate change with ambition and vision. This G20 should aspire to a new deal for a new era, fostering collaboration between public and private sectors to build a fairer and more inclusive global system. SA’s path forward is not without risk. Failing to tackle issues such as corruption, energy instability and economic inequality could risk political instability at home while undermining its global standing. Striking a balance – avoiding alienation of key partners while maintaining neutrality and inclusivity – is crucial. Importantly, outdated economic orthodoxies must be reconsidered. Bold approaches to fiscal constraints, sustainable debt management and innovative financing mechanisms are also needed to unlock growth and development. The global order, defined for decades by neoliberal principles of small states and big markets, is breaking down. A new vision is emerging – one where governments provide stronger strategic leadership, and private capital is mobilised in service of shared global priorities. SA’s presidency of the G20 is a chance to champion this vision, not as a fleeting moment but as part of a broader strategy to build lasting influence within the G20 and beyond. This G20 must not be just another summit. Nor should it be simply an ‘African G20’. It should be a moment of ambition and resolve. This is our opportunity – not just to represent, but to lead. By Sasha Planting