SACBC Justice and Peace Commission commends G20 resolutions

Sheila Pires – Pretoria

Held at the Nasrec Expo Centre under the theme ‘Solidarity, Sustainability and Equality’, the summit took place from 22 to 23 November and was attended by heads of state and government from across the G20 bloc. The incoming G20 Presidency, the United States of America, did not attend the summit.

Commitment to multilateralism 

In a declaration shared with the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference (SACBC) communication office, the Chairperson of the SACBC Social Action Department and Liaison Bishop for the Justice and Peace Commission notes with appreciation the strong reaffirmation of multilateral cooperation by G20 leaders.

Bishop Thulani Victor Mbuyisa, of Kokstad Diocese, said, “We welcome the renewed call for global partnership and the pledge to leave no person, no community, and no country behind, especially at a time when the world faces deep inequality and economic uncertainty.”

Progress on debt sustainability

The member of the Congregation of Mariannhill Missionaries (CMM) further commended the G20’s renewed support for the Common Framework for debt treatment. “We commend the G20’s support for debt transparency, fair debt treatment, and stronger debt management capacity for indebted nations. These steps respond directly to the calls of faith leaders, including the SACBC,” he said.

“We recall that the SACBC and other faith leaders submitted petitions to Minister Ronald Lamola ahead of the Summit, and we are encouraged that these concerns were reflected in the final resolutions,” said Bishop Mbuyisa.

Addressing Inequality 

The Commission also acknowledges the G20’s recognition of deep inequalities both within and between countries, and welcomed “the focus on inclusive industrialisation, women’s economic empowerment, financial inclusion, and reducing inequality between and within nations.”

A Historic Moment for Africa

Finally, the SACBC Justice and Peace Commission commended South Africa for successfully hosting the first G20 Leaders’ Summit on African soil, “marking a significant moment for Africa’s voice in global affairs.”