G20 Urged to Lead Inclusive Development Amid Global Crises, Says Ramokgopa

South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, has called on the Group of 20 (G20) to rise to the occasion and take decisive action to address the complex, interlinked crises that are threatening global development. Her powerful message was delivered during the opening of the Fourth G20 Development Working Group (DWG) meeting, held at Skukuza Lodge in the Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic natural landscapes.

Set against the backdrop of South Africa’s rich natural and archaeological heritage, the venue was described by Ramokgopa as symbolic of the country’s deep commitment to sustainable development and inclusive global cooperation.

“This week we gather not just as ministers, officials, and multilateral representatives,” said the Minister, “but as stewards of a common ambition to build a world where progress reaches even the most vulnerable.”

G20 Must Lead Amid a World in Crisis

Ramokgopa’s remarks come at a pivotal moment as the world grapples with economic fragility, widening inequality, climate change, geopolitical instability, and debt distress in many developing economies. She emphasized that the G20 is uniquely positioned to coordinate an effective response due to its broad representation of both advanced and emerging economies.

“The G20 has both the responsibility and the capacity to chart a new path. As reaffirmed at past summits—from Rio de Janeiro to New Delhi—it remains central to global development leadership,” she said.

She praised the Development Working Group’s consistent push for a people-centered development model rooted in justice, sustainability, and resilience, noting that the group has played a crucial role since its establishment in 2010 and reaffirmation in 2016.

Sustainable Development Goals in Peril

Minister Ramokgopa delivered a stark warning: only 15% of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are currently on track for achievement by 2030. The combination of rising debt, inflationary shocks, climate disasters, food insecurity, and geopolitical conflicts has widened the resource gap to trillions of dollars annually.

“This is the SDGs’ toughest test,” she said. “Bridging the divide demands collective action, creativity, and urgency.”

Gender Equality and Social Protection: A Development Priority

A central theme of Ramokgopa’s address was the need for universal social protection systems, emphasizing that social welfare must not be viewed as a handout, but as a foundational pillar of economic resilience and social cohesion.

She highlighted stark global gender disparities, citing data from UN Women:

• Women earn 20% less than men on average

• Over 2.7 billion women are legally restricted from certain job opportunities

• Nearly 60% of women globally work in the informal economy—with over 90% in low-income countries

To address these inequities, she called for:

• Universal access to social protection

• Recognition of unpaid care work

• Targeted support for historically marginalized groups

Strengthening Domestic Resource Mobilisation and Tackling Illicit Finance

On the subject of public finance, Ramokgopa stressed that domestic resource mobilisation is non-negotiable for sustainable development. However, she acknowledged that external support and innovative financing models are vital during crises.

“Strong and fair tax systems, transparency, and efforts to curb illicit financial flows (IFFs) are essential,” she said, noting that illicit outflows destabilize economies and undermine trust.

She reiterated South Africa’s full support for the outcomes of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development, including:

• Raising and wisely spending public revenue

• Curbing financial secrecy

• Ensuring global tax norms serve developing countries, not just the wealthiest

She urged all nations to adopt measures such as:

• Automatic data sharing

• Beneficial ownership registries

• Digital identity tracking

• Capacity-building for law enforcement and regulatory agencies

A Call for Global Governance Reform and Cooperation

Ramokgopa emphasized the need for a new era of global governance based on equity, transparency, and shared responsibilities. She called for a transformation in how global institutions function—arguing for inclusive multilateralism, stronger development finance institutions, and the innovative use of digital tools.

“The global problems we face do not respect borders,” she said. “Our responses must be borderless in ambition, boundless in cooperation, and grounded in solidarity.”

The ideas under consideration at the DWG meeting include:

• Reimagining global public goods

• Institutional reform with differentiated responsibilities

• Leveraging technology for inclusive development

Looking Ahead to the DWG Ministerial Meeting

This week's DWG gathering paves the way for the G20 DWG Ministerial Meeting on July 24–25, where policy frameworks and strategic commitments are expected to be finalized. The outcomes of these meetings will feed into the broader G20 Leaders' Summit, setting the tone for future global cooperation on development issues.

In closing, Ramokgopa expressed hope that the G20 would act decisively, not only to meet existing development goals but to chart new pathways for a more equitable world.

“We must stand united in purpose and partnership, to ensure no country or community is left behind. The time to act is now.”