Introduction

Inequality is one of the most urgent concerns in the world today, generating many other problems in economies, societies, polities and the environment.

Inequality causes people’s lives to be more fragile, leading to perceptions of unfairness that spark frustration and resentment. That, in turn, undermines social and political cohesion, eroding citizens’ trust in authorities and institutions. The consequences are political instability, decreased confidence in democracy, enhanced conflicts and diminished appetite for international cooperation. Inequality also affects our ability to deal with planetary challenges.

Inequality is not a given; combating it is necessary and possible. Inequality results from policy choices that reflect ethical attitudes and morals, as well as economic trade-offs. It is not just a matter of concern for individual countries, but a global concern that should be on the international agenda – and therefore the G20’s.

View or Download the G20 Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Inequality - Summary & Full Report