G20 Summit 2024, Gaza aid/ billionaire tax, U.N. reform/ Lula hunger alliance/ Newslooks/ RIO DE JANEIRO/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro called for increased aid to Gaza, an end to global conflicts, and a potential global billionaire tax. Leaders also emphasized reforming the U.N. Security Council and addressing hunger, with Brazil’s global alliance against poverty gaining momentum.
G20 Summit Focuses on Hunger, Peace, and Global Taxation
Key Points:
- Hunger Eradication:
- Brazil launched a global alliance against hunger and poverty, backed by 82 nations and organizations like the Gates Foundation.
- A beach demonstration in Rio symbolized global hunger, with 733 empty plates representing the millions affected in 2023.
- Middle East and Ukraine Wars:
- The G20 called for peace in Gaza and Ukraine but avoided directly blaming Israel or Russia.
- The declaration affirmed a two-state solution for Palestinians and Israelis while urging humanitarian aid for Gaza.
- Billionaire Tax Proposal:
- Lula pushed for taxing billionaires globally, despite opposition from Argentina’s President Javier Milei.
- The tax could affect 3,000 individuals worldwide, including about 100 in Latin America.
- U.N. Security Council Reform:
- Leaders agreed to pursue Security Council reform for more inclusive global representation.
- The U.S. supports two permanent African seats, while Brazil advocates for broader changes.
G20 Summit Calls for Aid to Gaza and Global Billionaire Tax
Deep Look: G20 Summit Priorities in Rio
Hunger Takes Center Stage
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva emphasized the fight against hunger, unveiling the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. The initiative, backed by global organizations, seeks to combat food insecurity exacerbated by wars and economic instability.
A demonstration on Rio’s Copacabana Beach featured 733 empty plates, symbolizing the millions who faced hunger in 2023. Lula’s call resonated internationally, with experts praising Brazil’s leadership in highlighting inequality and climate challenges.
Conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine Highlight Humanitarian Crises
The G20 statement focused on the devastating humanitarian impact of wars:
- Gaza Conflict: The declaration urged expanded aid for Gaza, where over 43,000 Palestinians have died since October 2023. It reaffirmed the two-state solution but stopped short of condemning Hamas or addressing Israel’s losses.
- Ukraine War: While calling for peace, the G20 refrained from naming Russia as the aggressor. The U.S. reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, with President Biden pushing allies to pressure Russia for peace.
Billionaire Tax Sparks Debate
The proposed global tax on billionaires, championed by Lula, aims to address extreme inequality. While the measure gained support, Argentina resisted, citing national sovereignty concerns. Experts say such a tax could fund sustainable development initiatives and close wealth gaps globally.
Pushing for U.N. Security Council Reform
Leaders endorsed reforms to make the U.N. Security Council more inclusive. Brazil, alongside allies like India and Japan, has long advocated for expanded permanent membership. The declaration, however, lacked specifics on implementation, reflecting ongoing global disagreements.
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