The ongoing G7 Summit in Canada, which brings together key economic powers like the US, UK, and Germany, prompts a critical evaluation of its global influence. The core issue: the exclusion of China, India, and Russia. Without these major players, the G7’s capacity to effectively address global issues is considerably diminished.
Established in 1975, the G7, initially the G6, has evolved over time, adding and removing members. Its focus remains on critical global areas, but the group’s representation of the global population is noticeably limited. With the world’s population exceeding 8 billion, the G7’s representation is below 10%. In contrast, China and India alone encompass over 35% of the global population, highlighting a significant demographic gap.
Economically, the G7’s share of global GDP is less than half. China and India, ranked among the top five global economies, add significant economic weight. Furthermore, the debt-to-GDP ratios of several G7 members raise concerns regarding long-term financial sustainability, while the ratios for China, India, and Russia appear more favorable.
Militarily, the G7’s structure excludes top military powers. In terms of military spending, personnel, and technological capabilities, China, India, and Russia collectively surpass several G7 members. The presence of nuclear powers further reinforces the importance of a more inclusive forum.
Expanding the G7 to include China, India, and Russia could reshape the group into a more representative and influential body. Including these nations would significantly increase the group’s share of the global GDP and bring in a substantial percentage of the global population. Such a change would likely lead to a more balanced distribution of power and a more transparent approach to global challenges. While there is some openness towards China and Russia, there has been no similar reception for India, which raises questions about the group’s strategic vision and relevance in a changing world.