Group of 77 (G77)

Categories: Econ, International

The G20 consists of the largest and most influential economies in the world. Out of that group, there's a breakout select club, the G8, which includes only the mega-important economic powers in the world (plus Canada, which must have incriminating pictures of the other countries in order to get an invite).

The G20 and, even more so, the G8, represent the big kahunas. The Group of 77 represent...the other guys.

Originally founded in the 1960s, the group has since expanded well beyond its original 77 members. In fact, despite retaining the name G77, it now has 134 members. Also, China participates in G77 events, but doesn't consider itself part of the group.

(It's clear from the whole naming thing that the G77 is pretty laid-back organization. It's like those people who invite their neighbors to family reunion barbeques...as long as folks bring beer, they're welcome to show up.)

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