The W20 engagement group under the auspices of the G20 focuses on promoting gender inclusiveness and gender equality, essentially making a significant contribution towards a strong, sustainable and balanced growth trend globally.

Formed under the Turkish term presidency of the G20, the W20 is set to organise its first global event in light of the Summit during Fall 2015. With the main theme being the empowerment of women, the engagement group will focus on overcoming contemporary challenges regarding gender inclusivity within the global economy.

Gender inclusiveness and gender equality are essential for a strong, sustainable and balanced growth. Women make up over half of the world´s population, but their contribution to economic growth is far below its potential. Gender inequality also restricts development and poverty eradication efforts in developing countries. Ameliorating these imbalances is vital for growth and development in our countries, and for the overall health of the world economy.

The Turkish Presidency proposed establishing the Women-20 (W20) as a G20 engagement group which would provide support for the efforts made by the G20 towards achieving inclusive growth and raising the profile of gender issues. H.E. Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan introduced the idea at the first Sherpa meeting in Istanbul on 15-16 December 2014. Following consultations, the Presidency was able to achieve consensus among all G20 members to form the W20 as a stand-alone engagement in 2015.