From G 8 To G - 20

The G8 (for "Group of Eight") is a newsgroup and economic partnership of eight countries among the most economically powerful in the world: United States, Japan, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Canada and Russia. Together they represent 61% of the global economy.

Leaders of G8 countries meet annually at a summit of Heads of State or Government and the presidents of the Commission and Council of Europe (and for certain activities, representatives of other countries or other international unions, invited to participate). Throughout the year, the G8 has a busy agenda in the host country, which meet the ministers and responsible 

tasks in each area (economy and finance, defense and international security, education, development, etc) To prepare the agenda for the annual summit, and then implement the initiatives taken at the summit.

First G6 at its inception in 1975, and G7 (integration of Canada in 1976), the group has expanded to Russia in 1998 to become the G8. In the twenty-first century, several members of the G8 call for a broadening of the group to include "six": Spain, China, India, South Africa, Brazil and Mexico. Guests so far in each case, they are now associated with major G8 discussions on crucial issues such as climate. Their views will be taken into account by the "sherpas" who prepare the summit. But it is the OECD and the G8 leaves the task of liaison.

These meetings are being challenged by anti-globalization movements that challenge the legitimacy of the G8 and accuse him of wanting to "lead the world in defiance of other countries to impose a liberal policy. However, these peaks offer a base from which it is possible to consider concrete policy interventions.