PACJA slams U.S. boycott of G20 Summit in South Africa
PACJA Slams U.S. Boycott of G20 Summit in South Africa. Photo by Ricardo Stuckert/PR/G20
The Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) has strongly condemned U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s decision to boycott the upcoming G20 Summit in South Africa, labeling it a “dangerous precedent” that undermines global cooperation and dismisses Africa’s pivotal role in tackling pressing global challenges, including climate change.
Rubio justified the U.S. boycott by citing concerns over South Africa’s geopolitical positions—particularly its stance on Russia-Ukraine relations, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and its active role within the BRICS alliance. According to the Secretary of State, South Africa’s foreign policy “does not align with U.S. interests,” making high-level diplomatic engagement untenable.
However, PACJA has criticized this reasoning as flawed and indicative of outdated power dynamics. “The G20 is a platform for multilateral dialogue, not an arena for ideological ultimatums and tantrums,” said Dr. Mithika Mwenda, Executive Director of PACJA. He argued that Africa, and South Africa in particular, has every right to define its foreign policy based on its national interests and historical context without being subjected to external pressures.
PACJA warned that the U.S. boycott could have dire consequences for global climate action. Africa, despite contributing the least to global greenhouse gas emissions, is disproportionately affected by climate change. The continent’s participation in global governance forums like the G20 is crucial for advocating fair and just climate solutions.
“By refusing to engage, the U.S. risks further eroding its credibility as a partner in the fight for climate justice, particularly in Africa where 630 million people still lack electricity and climate finance remains a broken promise,” Dr. Mwenda emphasized.
The statement urged African leaders to resist diplomatic pressure and reaffirm their commitment to sovereignty and equitable global relations. PACJA advocates for a shift towards a multipolar world order where Africa is not merely a spectator but an equal partner in decision-making processes.
“Africa is not a passive player in global affairs,” Dr. Mwenda asserted. “Dismissing its role in critical platforms like the G20 only deepens existing inequalities. This moment calls for a renewed push for South-South cooperation, stronger intra-African trade, and holding global partners—including the U.S.—accountable for their commitments on climate, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and economic partnerships.”
PACJA’s strong rebuke reflects growing frustrations across the continent over perceived diplomatic double standards and the slow pace of climate finance commitments from wealthy nations.
The alliance concluded its statement with a powerful message to African governments: “Africa’s future must not be held hostage to Washington’s political calculations. We call on African governments to stand firm, defend their sovereignty, and insist on mutual respect in global diplomacy.”
As the world grapples with interconnected crises from climate change to energy poverty—the message from PACJA is clear: Africa’s voice matters, and those who choose to disengage from meaningful dialogue do so at their own peril.
