Since 1975, the leaders of the world’s richest nations have gathered annually to consider economic policy issues as well as political and security matters. In addition to the annual meeting of heads of state and governments, there are also annual meetings of foreign ministers and other ad hoc ministerial meetings. The G7 Summits brought together leaders from the United States, Japan, Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy and Canada, and Russia’s inclusion led to the establishment of the G8. In 1999, following financial crisis in Asia, the G20 was created so that emerging markets could be represented. The 20 nations included were chosen by the original G7, and membership remains stable. Though not an "institution," the G7/G8/G20 represents an important global policy making process at the highest level. However, protests and alternative events have criticized the summit for defending the interests of the rich and powerful at the expense of most of the world's people. These worries are only exacerbated by the G20’s administration, which lacks structure and transparency.
G7/G8/G20 Summits
General Analysis on the G7/G8/G20
This page posts articles, papers, and other information on the G7/G8 and its role in global social and economic policy making.
Huntsville and Toronto, Canada: 2010
This page posts information on the G8/G20 meeting in Huntsville and Toronto, Canada in 2010.
Heiligendamm Summit, Germany: 2007
This page posts information on the G7/G8 meeting in Heiligenamm, Germany in 2007.
Gleneagles Summit, United Kingdom: 2005
This page posts information on the G7/G8 meeting in Gleneagles, Scotland in 2005.
Evian Summit, France: 2003
This page posts articles and other information on the Evian Summit in 2003.
Kananaskis Summit, Canada: 2002
This page posts articles and other information on the Kananaskis Summit in 2002.
Genoa Summit, Italy: 2001
This page posts information on the G7/G8 Summit in Genoa, Italy in 2001.
Okinawa Summit, Japan: 2000
This page posts information on the G7/G8 Summit in Okinawa, Japan in 2000.
Cologne Summit, Germany: 1999
This page posts information on the G7/G8 Summit in Cologne, Germany in 1999.
Links and Resources
This page provides links and resources on the G7/G8.
