Civil 20 Summit concludes with policy recommendations that face global challenges

The documents contain a vision for volunteer actions that are based on compassion as a driving force for the relationship between civil society organisations and governments.

As Chair of Civil 20 India 2023, Amma officially handed over the leadership of C20 to Brazil after a successful conclusion of its three-day Summit. One thousand ninety attendees from 140 countries were present at the event in Jaipur, Rajasthan, including civil society organisations from around the globe, distinguished experts with renowned institutions, and G20 India officials.

The C20 Summit witnessed the presentation of policy recommendations that contain a vision for volunteer actions based on compassion as a driving force. At the Valedictory Function, the Civil 20 Policy Pack and Communique were given to the G20 India Secretariat and representatives of Brazil, the country that will hold the next G20 Presidency.

“Amma served as our sole inspiration and guiding light for the remarkable success of C20 in India. This was possible only because of her divine leadership and guidance. As we draw the final curtains on the C20 final summit, we thank all the people and organisations whose unwavering commitment and collective support made this possible,” said Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri as Troika, C20 & Vice Chairman, Mata Amritanandamayi Math.

“A special word of thanks to civil society organisations for their commitment for promoting social justice, human rights, and sustainable development. Together, as a global community, we have taken a step forward in building a more equitable, sustainable and compassionate world as we leave this C20 Summit with new ideas and renewed determination. But let us remember that our work has only just begun.”

The policies developed by C20’s 16 working groups address crucial challenges, including health and wellbeing, women’s empowerment, community resilience in the face of disaster, access to education, water management, representing the voices of people with disabilities, and the positive and negative implications of technology as it rapidly advances.

Shri Kalraj Mishra, Hon’ble Governor of Rajasthan, emphasised the need for environmental conservation and drew attention to India’s tradition of worshipping trees and connecting them with the divine. He proposed four strategic pillars, including People, Prosperity, Planet, and Participation, focusing on critical result areas such as Health & Wellbeing, Economic Development & Decent Work, and Environmental Sustainability.

“Civil society organisations can play a huge role in shaping India’s development plans and policies according to the aspirations of the common people.... We must connect the modern generation with the traditions of love and care for animals within the framework of environmental balance. We have to focus on involving the younger generation in the development of skills and values that align with Indian culture,” said the Minister.

Smt Vasundhara Raje, Vice President, BJP and ex-Chief Minister of Rajasthan, also addressed the gathering. She urged collective responsibility in tackling the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and environmental issues. She emphasised the importance of sustainable practices, conservation, and renewable energy to safeguard the planet. She said humankind must accept collective responsibility, as this situation is of our own making.

"The COVID pandemic was a testament to both the unpreparedness of nation states and the resilience of humanity. Together, governments, civil society, and science successfully combated the disease and vaccinated the majority of the adult population. The spirit of cooperative federalism flourished.

“However, amidst all our triumphs, we must heed the warning from Mother Nature, as our relentless pursuit of physical comfort is leading to reckless depletion of natural wealth. Our thirst for energy poses a grave threat to the very planet that sustains us,” said Smt Varsundhara Raje.

The 16 Working Groups of C20 have proposed a wide array of policy recommendations on each of their thematic areas. They have also come up with specific examples of successful work that has already been done by civil society organisations in each area of focus which could be replicated elsewhere in the world.

Other prominent dignitaries who attended the valedictory function included Shri Vijay Nambiar, Sherpa C20 India; Sri M, Core Committee Member, C20; Shri Athayde Motta, Executive Director, Abong; and Ms Élisabeth Moreno, ex-Minister Delegate in France for Equality Between Women & Men, Diversity & Equal Opportunities.