The Challenges
The G7/G8 has constantly broadened out the scope of its actions over the years.
Initial interest in problems connected with financial stability and with macro-economic coordination has been supplemented over the years by greater sensitivity towards other crucial issues, ranging from the development of Africa, to climate changes, and to the myriad different aspects of security such as food safety and security, the prevention of pandemics and the resolution of international crises. At this juncture, such issues are considered to be part and parcel of the G8 Summit agenda
Several of the more important initiatives connected with these issues on the G8 agenda are based on a shared approach, such as the Heiligendamm Process of dialogue with the main emerging economies, achieving the Millennium Development Goals before the end of 2015, or the world leaders' commitment to combating the causes of poverty and of underdevelopment.
