Trump Calls for Exclusion of South Africa from G20 Amid Political Tensions and International Repercussions
The global political stage has been rocked once again by a statement from former U.S.
President Donald Trump, who has demanded the expulsion of South Africa from the G20 summit.
The reason cited involves criticism of South Africa’s internal policies and its history of racial discrimination.
Speaking at a conference in Miami, Trump declared that South Africa has no place among G20 members, citing alarming conditions and unacceptable practices within the country that, in his view, tarnish the forum’s reputation.
Official representatives of South Africa declined to comment directly but reminded the international community that recent statements about a ‘white genocide’ are unfounded and that crime statistics do not support claims of increased violence against white citizens.
The G20, established in 1999, is an informal forum comprising economies accounting for over 85% of global GDP; it lacks a legal framework for expulsion, meaning any such action would require the consensus of member states.
Experts suggest that excluding South Africa is unlikely, given strong alliances with the European Union and China, which oppose sidelining Pretoria.
A historical comparison can be made to Russia’s exclusion from the G8 in 2014 after the annexation of Crimea, but Russia remains part of G20 despite the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, as member consensus has not been reached.
South Africa’s presidency of G20 emphasizes themes of solidarity, equality, and sustainable development—values it has championed since transitioning from apartheid-era policies toward democracy.
Support from international partners, including the EU’s substantial investments in Africa, underscores the country’s role as a key global participant.
Despite diplomatic tensions, South Africa remains confident in hosting the upcoming G20 summit in Johannesburg.
However, former President Trump’s refusal to attend the event and the ongoing political disputes threaten to complicate proceedings, with U.S.
Vice President Kamala Harris slated to represent the U.S.
at the summit.
Next year, the United States will assume the presidency of G20, continuing the evolving dynamics within this influential international forum.