The G20 has been moving toward a clearer recognition of the African Union as a full participant in its deliberations, according to officials familiar with the discussions. In a recent briefing, the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, signaled that consensus exists on elevating the AU’s profile within the forum. He emphasized that African voices deserve broader representation on the global stage, reflecting the continent’s growing economic influence and strategic importance. The AU, comprising 55 member states, has long participated in G20-related activities, yet advocating for permanent status comparable to that of the European Union points to a deeper integration that goes beyond mere attendance.
Michel’s remarks underscored a shared belief among G20 leaders that Africa should occupy a formal, consistent place in the group’s framework. The goal is not simply periodic invitations to summits but a stable, recognized seat that mirrors the weight of regional blocs with global ambitions. In this vision, the AU’s permanent membership would signal a commitment to inclusive governance and multi-regional collaboration on issues ranging from climate resilience to financial stability, and inclusive growth that leaves fewer people behind.
Officials note that a broad consensus has emerged around this topic within the G20 discussions. This convergence is being framed as a natural evolution in the relationship between the world’s leading economies and one of the fastest-growing regions. By aligning with the AU’s objectives, the G20 would better reflect the realities of the 21st-century economy and strengthen collective action on global challenges that require a diversified set of perspectives and experiences.
Earlier, Russian diplomatic channels described ongoing preparations at the New Delhi summit for the formal admission of the African Union into the G20 roster. The Foreign Ministry outlined that a draft declaration circulated among leaders included language supporting the AU’s bid, with the expectation that Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would participate in upcoming discussions. Moscow has been among the voices encouraging broader continental representation in major international forums, highlighting the strategic value of stronger ties with Africa and a shared interest in shaping the rules that govern international cooperation.
From a broader EU perspective, there has long been openness to the idea of the AU joining the G20 as part of an expanded partnership on global issues. Proponents argue that Africa’s development trajectory and demographic heft warrant a voice at the table where economic policy, trade, finance, and sustainable development are debated. Supporters contend that a formal AU seat would enable more coordinated responses to crises, better aid in aligning development aid with real on-the-ground needs, and foster collaborative approaches to infrastructure, energy access, and technology transfer that can accelerate progress across the continent.
On the practical side, advocates point to mechanisms that would accompany permanent AU membership. These could include rotating representation within the AU’s own governance structures to reflect changing priorities, clearer lines of accountability between continental programs and group decisions, and enhanced channels for the AU to contribute to working groups focused on macroeconomic stability, health security, and digital inclusion. The aim is to blend the AU’s regional experience with the G20’s policy tools, creating a more resilient framework for shared prosperity that acknowledges diverse development paths.
Critics caution that expanding membership must be handled with care to preserve the G20’s efficiency and decision-making capacity. They warn that rapid expansion could complicate consensus-building and slow responses to urgent issues. Proponents address these concerns by proposing structured engagement mechanisms, including advisory councils, limited observer roles, and well-defined criteria for permanent participation that ensure constructive, outcome-oriented dialogue. The overarching objective remains clear: to strengthen global governance through inclusive representation that mirrors today’s economic realities while safeguarding the group’s effectiveness.
As conversations progress, researchers and policymakers alike are examining the potential implications for international finance, climate policy, and geopolitical alignments. A permanent AU seat could influence policy coordination on debt relief, capital flows, and development financing, while reinforcing partnerships that advance energy transition goals and technology-led growth. In parallel, Africa’s growing market potential and its role as a hub for innovation are likely to shape the G20’s agenda, offering new opportunities for investment, skills development, and regional integration. The evolving dialogue suggests a future where the AU’s permanent membership becomes a cornerstone of a more representative and action-oriented global framework, with tangible benefits for economies across Canada, the United States, and partner nations in North America and beyond.