G8 - What's the point?

The question of the G8's purpose may arise next week as the leaders of the seven largest industrial nations and Russia (G8) meet from June 6-8 in Heiligendamm, Germany to discuss some of the world’s biggest political, economic and environmental challenges.

In January, Germany started its twelve-month G8 presidency with an ambitious agenda, which includes contentious issues such as climate change, world trade negotiations as well as Iran, Iraq and Kosovo. Recent preparatory meetings have made it clear that no substantial agreement can be expected on any of these issues next week.

While the forum has expanded its agenda from the original remit of global economic questions to cover all aspects of globalisation, it has so far resisted calls from major new world players, such as China, India or Brazil to be included in the circle.

The intimacy of only eight leaders may allow for a more direct exchange of ideas and facilitates compromises, but disagreements often prevail as will become evident this week.

In the absence of a more efficient system of global governance, the G8 may be the least worst option to address today’s global challenges -- the organisation admittedly has the merit of keeping issues in the public eye. Even if the G8 fails to reach deals on any of the key issues, the fact that they are being openly addressed between the world’s leaders will ensure that they stay on the global agenda until a compromise solution is found.