We further extend our deep gratitude to the South African trade union movement for its commitment, visibility, and mobilising leadership throughout this momentous process. Workers’ voices were not only present — they were influential in shaping the dialogue on fair labour standards, social justice, and the urgent need for an inclusive global economy. This is a milestone achievement for the entire African labour movement.

Under the Brazilian Presidency, the world embraced a powerful commitment to end hunger — a moral and economic imperative. South Africa has carried that torch forward, advancing resolutions that reinforce global cooperation on sustainable development, decent work, and a fairer international financial architecture. This continuity between Brazil and South Africa has injected renewed momentum and hope into the G20 process. It reflects a rhythm of responsible leadership that must not be disrupted by pettiness or divisive political games.

However, it is regrettable that U.S. President Donald Trump chose to decline the invitation to attend, driven by misinformation and confrontational posturing. As the G20 transitions into its next presidency under U.S. leadership, the world is rightfully cautious. The challenges before humanity cannot withstand indifference to global responsibility or a retreat into isolationism.

We therefore call on the United States to rise above demagoguery, narrow nationalism, and unilateralism. A nation of America’s stature must not fracture global unity — it must help build it. Workers demand a leadership approach that strengthens cooperation to tackle inequality, conflict, climate breakdown, and the technological disruptions shaping labour markets.

As workers, we stand firmly against all forms of bullying, intimidation, and transactional coercion in international relations. Attempts to force sovereign nations — including South Africa — to bend to narrow interests are unacceptable. Respectful, principled engagement is the only way forward.

We emphasize that America’s global relevance will depend not on protectionist policies or extractive trade practices, but on fair partnership with the world — including Africa — built on solidarity, mutual respect, and shared prosperity. Africa is not seeking charity; we demand fair trade, not one-sided tariffs and exploitative arrangements that inhibit our industrialisation and job creation.

At the same time, we call upon African leaders to urgently and fully operationalise the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). With strong political will, AfCFTA can emerge as one of the most influential trading blocs globally — recalibrating the geopolitics of trade toward equity and justice. A united Africa will not be bullied; those who seek to isolate or dominate us will find themselves increasingly alone in a multipolar world.

Workers across Africa will now actively monitor the implementation of commitments arising from the G20 Summit. We stand ready to advance every opportunity that contributes to sustainable growth, decent work, economic justice, and dignity for African workers and communities.

The spirit of the G20 in Africa must be carried forward. The time for action is now — and the African workforce will remain at the forefront of shaping the next chapter.

Signed

Akhator Joel Odigie
General Secretary
ITUC-Africa
Lomé, Togo