Johannesburg, South Africa – The G20 Summit wrapped up with South Africa showing welcome leadership as host, but no progress on commitments to tax the super-rich or for G20 countries to advance on their support of the UN Tax Convention negotiations for fairer global tax rules.

Fred Njehu, Fair Share Global Political Lead, Greenpeace Africa, said: “It is indefensible that even after the G20 report had clearly spelt out that inequality is on a sharp rise, G20 leaders are not taking action to correct it. Billionaires are getting richer while billions, especially in Africa and the global majority, are left behind as their standard of living declines and public systems crumble amidst the escalating climate crisis.”

G20 leaders must put wealth tax discussions back on the table and show real commitment to global tax justice. They need to engage constructively in the UN Tax Convention to deliver a truly historic treaty, one that finally rebalances taxing rights and ensures the super-rich and major polluters pay their fair share for the damage they cause.”

As the United States prepares to assume the G20 presidency in 2026, it is imperative that global leaders demonstrate leadership and ambition in addressing inequality and ensuring that the wealthiest pay their fair share.[1]

ENDS

Notes:

[1] The G20 report by economist Joseph Stiglitz shows that between 2000 and 2024 the world’s wealthiest 1% captured 41% of all new wealth, while just 1% went to the 50% of humanity at the other end of the scale.

Contacts:

Ferdinand Omondi, Communications and Storytelling Manager, Greenpeace Africa, +254 722 505 233, [email protected]

Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]