Diplomatic Mega-Events: Hosting the G20

How India's 2023 G20 presidency held meetings across many cities, what it cost, and how summits create different benefits from sports events.

Not all mega-events are sports.

India’s G20 presidency

India held the G20 presidency from December 2022 to November 2023.
It hosted over 200 meetings in around 60 cities.
The New Delhi summit in September 2023 took place at Bharat Mandapam.

Outcomes

The African Union became a permanent G20 member.
A leaders’ declaration was agreed despite divisions over Ukraine.

Spending

The government spent on venues, city beautification, security and hospitality.
Bharat Mandapam was built as a lasting convention centre.

Benefits

Global visibility for many cities.
Soft power and diplomatic influence.
Upgrades to city infrastructure.

Concerns

Slum clearances and covering poor areas raised criticism.
Temporary beautification.

Different logic

Summits are shorter and cheaper than Olympics, with benefits mainly diplomatic.

The meeting city

A G20 working group meeting brings delegates to a smaller Indian city, which repaints streets and showcases local crafts, gaining rare international attention.

Thinking mega-events are only about sports

Diplomatic summits like the G20 are mega-events too.

Key takeaways

India held the G20 presidency in 2022-23.
It hosted over 200 meetings in around 60 cities.
The African Union joined the G20 as a permanent member.
Summits offer mainly diplomatic benefits.