G20 Radio Bulletin 152 - At the G20, Lula defends urgent reform of global governance

The Brazilian president criticized the veto in the UN Security Council and proposed taxing the super-rich to combat global inequalities and crises. “Neoliberal globalization has failed”. Listen to the report and learn more.

Report: Leandro Molina / Rebeca Rodrigues 

Reporter: During the 2nd Session of the G20 Leaders' Meeting, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva spoke about the urgent need to reform global governance institutions. In his speech, Lula highlighted that the history of the G20 has been shaped by economic crises, such as the one in 2008. He warned that, although urgent actions have prevented a total collapse, the reforms are still insufficient. 

Lula: At that time, the choice was to save banks instead of helping people.

It was decided to help the private sector instead of strengthening the state. The world grew again, but the wealth generated did not reach those most in need. “Neoliberal globalization has failed”. 

Reporter: For him, the inequality generated by the global economy is a breeding ground for hatred and violence, as well as threatening democracy. Lula also criticized the conduct of international policies, noting that the current global governance crisis is reflected in the growing violence and confrontation between nations.

Lula: We remain adrift as if dragged by a torrent that pushes us towards a tragedy. But confrontation is not a fatality. To deny this is to give up our responsibility.

Reporter: The president argued that the G20 leaders, representing the world's largest economies, are in a unique position to promote meaningful change. One of the Brazilian president's harshest criticisms was about the UN Security Council.

Lula: The omission of the Security Council has itself been a threat to international peace and security. The indiscriminate use of the veto makes the body hostage to the five permanent members. Therefore, Brasil proposed, in New York, convening a conference to revise the UN Charter, under the terms of article 109.

Reporter: Regarding international finance, Lula supported the idea of a tax on the wealth of the super-rich. 

Lula: A 2% tax on the wealth of super-rich individuals could generate around 250 billion dollars per year, which could be invested in addressing the social and environmental challenges of our time.

Reporter: The Brazilian president concluded his speech by warning that the fear of dialogue cannot prevail in international relations. 

Lula: The future will be multipolar. Accepting this reality paves the way for peace.

*Translated by PGET-UFSC