G20 Adopts Landmark Johannesburg Declaration, Condemning Terrorism and Pushing UNSC Reform.

International | Dated: 22 Nov 2025

The G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, adopted a landmark declaration early on the opening day, a break from tradition. The declaration centres on development justice, debt relief, and climate ambition, and notably includes a single-line condemnation of terrorism in all its forms, reflecting India's long-standing diplomatic push. It also advocates for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to make it more representative of the 21st century realities. The adoption was made despite the boycott and opposition from the US, underscoring the strong pro-Global South tilt of the South African Presidency.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • The Declaration was adopted on the opening day of the G20 Summit, breaking tradition.
  • The declaration includes a strong call for the reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC).
  • The US boycotted the event due to objections over the agenda's focus on climate and inequality.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • The Declaration emphasized the importance of a rules-based multilateral trading system.
  • It commits to supporting the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund.
  • Leaders reaffirmed support for the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

The Johannesburg Declaration explicitly calls for the reform of which major international body?

Correct Answer: United Nations Security Council (UNSC)

🚀 Quick Recap:

About Johannesburg Declaration

  • (i) Theme Alignment: Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability. (ii) Climate Finance: Recognizes the need to scale up funding from billions to trillions.
  • (iii) Conflict: Calls for peace in Sudan, DRC, Occupied Palestinian Territory, and Ukraine. (iv) Indian Priority: Single-line condemnation of terrorism and UNSC reform.