President Donald Trump has made a historic decision by excluding South Africa from the 2026 G20 summit in Miami, a move that breaks with over two decades of tradition and marks the first time a G20 member has been formally excluded. The administration cited alleged ‘horrific human rights abuses’ as the justification, claiming that ‘they are killing white people and randomly allowing their farms to be taken from them.’ This decision comes amid a backdrop of escalating tensions between the Trump administration and South Africa, including the suspension of U.S. aid and the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador.
The exclusion of South Africa from the G20 summit is a significant departure from historical practice, as the group has typically included all its members in its gatherings. The administration’s rationale is rooted in allegations of violent and discriminatory practices against White farmers in rural communities, a claim that has been a point of contention between the U.S. and South Africa for some time. The State Department previously criticized the South African government for failing to address these issues, leading to a boycott of the 2025 G20 meeting in Johannesburg.
Clayson Monyela, head of diplomacy for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, dismissed the notion that South Africa could be shut out, stating that the country is a founding member of the G20 and that its exclusion would have severe consequences for the group. He warned that other G20 members might also boycott the U.S.-hosted summit if South Africa is excluded, emphasizing the potential for a breakdown in international cooperation.
This move is also part of a broader pattern of tension between the Trump administration and South Africa. In February, Trump suspended U.S. aid to the country, citing discrimination against White farmers, and in March, the State Department expelled South Africa’s ambassador. The relationship further deteriorated in May when Trump pressed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa over allegations of violence against White Afrikaners. Ramaphosa responded by stating there was no evidence to support these claims.
The financial implications of this decision could be significant. By cutting off U.S. payments to South Africa, the Trump administration is signaling a potential economic sanction against the country, which could impact its economy, particularly in sectors reliant on international trade and investment. However, the broader impact on the G20’s role in global economic policymaking is still uncertain, given the ongoing challenges of ensuring inclusive and effective international cooperation.
As the 2026 G20 summit approaches, the exclusion of South Africa raises questions about the future of the group and the role of the United States in global economic governance. The move underscores the potential for political and ideological divergences to influence major international institutions, raising concerns about the stability and effectiveness of such global partnerships.