President Speaks at G20 Social Summit Closure in Rio de Janeiro
On Saturday, November 16, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva delivered a speech at the closing ceremony of the G20 Social Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Highlighting the role of both global leaders and civil society, Lula emphasized Brazil and the Amazon’s importance in tackling pressing global issues.
“Everyone talks about the Amazon. Now it’s time for the Amazon to speak to the world. Under each tree canopy, there is an indigenous person, a rural worker, a human being,” Lula stated.
Addressing Climate and Hunger
The president linked the climate crisis to issues of hunger, framing both as key priorities during Brazil’s G20 presidency. He cited recent global tragedies, such as those in Valencia, Spain, as examples of urgent challenges. “To protect the forest, people must have enough to eat. And for that, rich countries need to provide funding,” he said.
Lula also underscored the necessity of international cooperation in addressing these challenges. “The world must come together. Change is possible if there is a will,” he affirmed.
Civil Society’s Role
Lula praised civil society’s active involvement in the summit, a feature introduced during Brazil’s G20 leadership. He stated that politics and economics should not be exclusive domains of specialists or bureaucrats. “These policies impact our daily lives, expanding or limiting opportunities. G20 leaders have the power to improve millions of lives,” he said.
The president called for civil society’s continued engagement to advance initiatives such as the Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty and the taxation of the ultra-wealthy. He expressed confidence that the G20 Social Summit would continue under South Africa’s leadership.
“This is just the beginning,” Lula noted. “The G20 must happen every day in our lives, not just during formal meetings.”
Critique of Neoliberalism
Criticizing neoliberal policies, Lula highlighted their role in exacerbating inequality and detachment between markets and the population. “Governments must bridge the growing dissonance between the voice of the markets and the voice of the people,” he declared, emphasizing the need for measures to reduce living costs and promote a balanced work-life dynamic.
Advocacy for Global Governance Reform
Lula called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council to prevent conflicts and enhance representation. “With 193 nations in the UN, where is Africa? Where is Latin America? Many Asian countries? These regions must have a seat at the table,” he demanded.
G20 Social’s Inaugural Success
The G20 Social Summit, initiated under Brazil’s presidency, marked its debut from November 14-16 in Rio de Janeiro’s port area. The event aimed to integrate societal voices into political discussions. South Africa, the next G20 host, has already committed to continuing the initiative.
Bilateral Engagements Ahead
Lula’s agenda for the G20 includes 11 scheduled meetings with global leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and leaders from France, the UK, Italy, and Japan. These discussions will address critical topics such as environmental policies, taxing the wealthy, and global governance reform.
On Tuesday, November 19, Lula will conclude his G20 engagements with a lunch alongside U.S. President Joe Biden and a press conference summarizing the summit. Additional meetings may be added as international delegations finalize their schedules.
