Care is a strategic investment, fundamental to resilient economies, inclusive societies, and sustainable development. Yet despite unpaid care work representing 9% of global gross domestic product (GDP), care remains undervalued, underpaid, and underfunded. Amid widening inequalities, geopolitical tensions, climate crises, conflict, and displacement – challenges that threaten social investments and development progress – embedding care into G20 fiscal, economic, and social strategies is more urgent than ever.

Investments in care can generate substantial economic returns, potentially creating millions of jobs, boosting global GDP and tax revenues, all while reducing poverty, strengthening resilience, and improving livelihoods. Thus, care can be both a powerful social equaliser and a driver of inclusive, sustainable growth. However, while the care economy is gaining recognition in international discussions, progress remains limited due to persistent gaps in investment, coordination, and implementation.

The G20 has acknowledged care’s importance but has not yet delivered the decisive, coordinated action and financing needed to realise its full transformative potential. Crucially, commitments have not been matched by adequate funding or meaningful improvements in services, infrastructure, or data collection.

Strong care and support systems are essential to accelerating recovery and transformation. South Africa’s G20 presidency provides a timely opportunity to position care as a cross-cutting priority within public policies globally. This brief builds on prior G20 commitments and proposes concrete policy actions anchored in gender equality, disability inclusion, human rights, and sustainability principles. By integrating care strategically into fiscal, economic and social frameworks, the G20 can harness its potential to drive solidarity, equality, and sustainability – core principles of South Africa’s presidency – and effectively respond to today’s intersecting global crises.