The g7+: Emergence of a New Global Player
Establishment of the g7+
In April 2010, the g7+ was established as an intergovernmental organization comprised of 20 countries united by a vision of peace, stability, and development in their countries and everywhere in the world. The g7+ Member States include Afghanistan, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Liberia, Papua New Guinea, Sao Tome e Principe, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Timor-Leste, Togo, Yemen.
The Chair of the g7+ rotates bi-annually among the Member States with the possibility of re-appointment. The current Chair is H.E. Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone. The Headquarters of the g7+ is located in Timor-Leste, with offices in Portugal and New York.
Mission of the g7+
Founded on the notion of solidarity, cooperation and volunteerism, the g7+ provides a platform for conflict-affected countries: to collectively advocate for peace, stability, and sustainable development; to drive international cooperation toward that goal; to promote dialogue and reconciliation in the face of conflict; to ensure that the voices of these nations are represented in global policy discussions; to advocate for effective development cooperation founded on the principles of country ownership, transparency and mutual accountability between government and development partners; and to facilitate sharing of first-hand experience and good peace-building, state-building and development practices with one another.
Evolution of the g7+
Established as an informal association in 2010, the g7+ has evolved into an influential global forum, with Observer Status at the United Nations granted in 2019 and its Charter registered at the UN Treaty Department in 2021.
Major Milestones of the g7+
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Stand-alone Goal on Peace, Justice and Effective Institutions Included in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable DevelopmentThe g7+ was a driving force for the inclusion of a standalone goal for peace, justice and effective institutions (Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16) in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted on September 25, 2015. SDG 16 calls on States to “promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.”
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UN Observer StatusThe United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) granted the g7+ Observer Status in 2019 by Resolution 74/196 in recognition of the organization’s meaningful contribution to UN affairs. With a seat at the UNGA, the g7+ has engaged with UN Member States and shared perspectives at sessions of the UN Security Council and the UN Peacebuilding Commission, the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Human Rights Council to address humanitarian and development issues. With Observer Status, the g7+ enjoys access to UN Headquarters, with the ability to host meetings and conferences.
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Strong Voice for Conflict-Affected StatesThe g7+ has amplified the voices of conflict-affected countries in global forums and institutions, such as International Financial Institutions (IFIs), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and Conferences of the Parties (COPs). By advocating for tailored approaches to peacebuilding, state-building, development cooperation, trade, and resilience, the g7+ has sought to ensure that the unique challenges of its member states are recognized and addressed. Additionally, it has emphasized the need for targeted support in addressing climate change impacts on fragile countries, ensuring these nations are not left behind in global policy discussion
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Assistance to g7+ Member Countries on Peace and StabilityThe g7+ has played a crucial role in assisting its Member States in achieving peace and stability. This includes facilitating dialogue and reconciliation processes to resolve conflicts, as well as promoting peaceful transitions. The g7+ has also fostered financial cooperation among Member States, providing support during humanitarian emergencies and in the pursuit of democracy. By sharing lessons learned in peace-building and state-building, the g7+ has enabled its Member States to benefit from each other’s experiences, contributing to the development of more resilient and stable nations.
Challenges for the g7+
- Current geopolitical fragmentation has affected peace and stability in g7+ countries by complicating peace-building efforts. It has further diverted global attention, leading to reduced international support and delayed humanitarian aid.
- Worsening climate change and natural crises have disproportionately affected conflict-affected countries, which are already vulnerable due to their fragility, and these nations have struggled to access climate finance because of stringent conditions set by international financial institutions.
Transition in Selected g7+ Countries Requiring Greater Assistance
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AfghanistanResulting from decades of instability, Afghanistan faces multiple humanitarian crises. About 70% of the population is in need of humanitarian assistance. More than 90% of the population lives in poverty, and the economic collapse has resulted in 19 million people experiencing acute hunger. Additionally, restrictions on girls’ education and women’s rights have compounded the crisis. The UN and regional and global actors can help by facilitating inclusive peace negotiations, restoring democratic governance, and addressing humanitarian needs.
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Central African Republic (CAR)The CAR faces the severe challenge of persistent and often-neglected conflict driven by political instability, armed group violence, and deep ethnic and religious divisions, leading to widespread displacement of its people and a dire need for humanitarian support. Despite some reduction in conflict, large parts of the country still experience significant unrest, with public services stretched to the breaking point. The UN can enhance peacekeeping, support national dialogues, and provide targeted aid.
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Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)The DRC is experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 5.6 million displaced by conflicts driven by over 120 armed groups. This violence, along with deep-seated political instability, has left 27 million people food insecure and nearly 64% of the population living in extreme poverty, despite the country’s vast natural resources. The DRC needs to urgently strengthen security by addressing armed groups and restoring state authority, to promote inclusive governance to rebuild trust and prevent political crises, and to enhance humanitarian response by improving access to essential services and economic opportunities to achieve long-term stability.
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HaitiSevere challenges confront Haiti due to ongoing political instability and violence, with over 5 million people needing urgent humanitarian aid and 43% of the population experiencing food insecurity. Economic conditions are dire, with over 60% living below the poverty line, exacerbating gang violence and mass displacement. With the deployment of a Multinational Security Support Mission led by Kenya, increased security forces and economic aid are crucial, particularly as Haiti prepares for elections.
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South SudanThe country faces challenges to its plans to conduct long-awaited elections. Under the terms of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict, South Sudan is governed by a Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity. Democratically held elections are critical and will promote the legitimacy of the state and increase its chances for stability. However, the country requires financial assistance to conduct elections.
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YemenThe prolonged conflict has devastated Yemen’s economy, infrastructure, and social fabric, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. Over 24 million people—nearly 80% of the population—require humanitarian aid, with over 17 million experiencing food insecurity. The conflict has resulted in more than 250,000 deaths, including 4,500 children, and has left over 4 million people displaced.
Strategic Priorities of the g7+
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Pursuit of Peace, Resilience, and StabilityIn light of the current multidimensional crises facing the world, the g7+ will intensify efforts to promote peace, stability, and resilience. This goal will be achieved through collective advocacy, peer learning, and mediation among its member states, ensuring a united approach to addressing conflicts and fostering long-term stability.
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Effective Cooperation for DevelopmentThe g7+ will continue to engage with international development actors to pursue effective and harmonized development cooperation. By working closely with global partners, the g7+ aims to address the specific development needs of its member countries, ensuring that support is tailored to the unique challenges faced by fragile States.
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Consolidation of the g7+To achieve its collective aspirations, the g7+ will focus on further consolidating its role as a platform for Member States. This priority involves strengthening its capacity to convene members on the global stage, amplifying their voices and fostering a united front in international forums to advocate for the priorities of fragile and conflict-affected states.
Contact Information
g7+ Headquarters
Kobe House, Rua Palacio do Governo, Dili,
Timor-Leste
Phone number: +670 3310126
Email: g7plus.secretariat@gmail.com
g7+ Lisbon Hub:
Avenida 24 de Julho n.º 118 B/C/D – 1200-871 Lisbon-Portugal
Phone: +351 211 322 371
g7+ New York Office
305 East 47th Street, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10017
Phone: +1 646 370 5560
Website and social media
Website: www.g7plus.org
F: The g7+
X: @g7plus