To the Heads of State and Government of the G20,

We, the undersigned Engagement Groups, are writing to you collectively to reaffirm the fundamental importance of non-government representatives'representatives participation within the G20 framework. As the premier forum for international economic cooperation, the G20’s legitimacy and effectiveness have long been strengthened by the diverse perspectives provided by its formal Engagement Groups.

For decades, the G20 has fostered a traditional and historic process of inclusive dialogue. This established architecture—comprising the C20 (Civil 20), L20 (Labour 20), W20 (Women 20), and T20 (Think 20), among others—allows global society to contribute expert recommendations, monitor debate implementation, and ensure that policy outcomes reflect the needs of the populations they serve.

We view with grave concern reports suggesting that the 2026 Presidency may seek to restrict this participation by recognizing only a single Engagement Group. At this critical juncture in global history, such a move would represent a significant departure from the democratic and collaborative spirit that has defined the G20 for years.

Restricting the space for civic engagement undermines the very progress we have collectively achieved. The challenges of our time—from economic stability and labor rights to gender equality and environmentalenvironment crises—require more inclusive dialogue, not less. The multi-stakeholder model is not merely a tradition,; it is a vital mechanism that ensures G20 decisions are grounded in the lived realities of people worldwide.

On behalf of the C20, L20, W20, and T20 constituencies, we strongly urge all G20 governments to ensure that the 2026 cycle maintains the historic integrity of all Engagement Groups as they have been composed over the last decades. We remain committed to collaborating and contributing to the G20’s mission, provided the necessary spaces for such participation are preserved.

The world is watching. We trust that the G20 will continue to play its role of dialogue and joint commitmentlead by example, fostering an environment where all sectors of society can meaningfully participate in shaping our global future.

Sincerely,

International Advisory Committee

Insights from the 2019 C20 Presidency