G7 and G20 Clubs’ participation in international conflict resolution: Ambitions and realia

Tatyana Meleshchenko

G7 and G20 Clubs’ participation in international conflict resolution: Ambitions and realia

Tatyana Meleshchenko

Abstract

This study analysed the involvement of the G7 and G20 clubs in the settlement of international conflicts in 2020-2024 to identify discrepancies between the declared intentions and practical achievements of these forums. The study was found significant differences in the approaches and effectiveness of the G7 and G20 in peacekeeping. The G7, due to its more homogeneous composition and strong economic leverage, has demonstrated greater effectiveness in the short term, especially in responding to acute crises such as Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. On the other hand, the G20, with its wider representation, has shown the potential to have a more systemic impact on global security in the long term by focusing on economic development as a means of conflict prevention. The analysis of approaches and tools revealed that the G7 relies more on economic sanctions and political pressure, while the G20 focuses on economic cooper- ation and development. Both clubs face challenges in reaching consensus and achieving ambitious goals, especially in the context of complex geopolitical conflicts. The study revealed a considerable gap between rhetoric and practice, especially in the areas of conflict resolution, counter-terrorism, and climate security. Declarative statements are often not backed up by effective actions, partly due to the lack of enforcement mechanisms and the need to reconcile diverse national in- terests. The results point to the need to rethink the role and working methods of the G7 and G20 in the context of current global challenges. The study proposed a more flexible and adaptive approach to peacekeeping that would account for both short-term crises and long-term stability factors. The significance of strengthening coordination between the G7 and G20, as well as with other international organisations, to achieve a synergistic effect in conflict resolution was emphasised. Understanding the potential and limitations of these international forums in the field of peacekeeping allows developing more effective strategies of state cooperation to overcome crises

Keywords

global governance; peacekeeping; international security; economic sanctions; diplomacy; geopolitics; multi- lateral cooperation

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Suggested citation

Meleshchenko, T. (2024). G7 and G20 Clubs’ participation in international conflict resolution: Ambitions and realia. Foreign Affairs, 34(4), 80-92. https://doi.org/10.46493/2663-2675.34(4).2024.80