The Group of Eight (G-8) is a forum for the coordination of international economic, political, and security related issues. The G-8, which was established in 1975, is composed of the seven largest, most influential economies in the world, namely, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada. Russia was an original member, but was suspended from the organization in 2014 after annexing Crimea from Ukraine.

The G-8 meets annually to discuss issues pertaining to the global economy, international security and energy, as well as to coordinate plans and policies related to these and other issues. While the G-8 meetings take place outside of formal legal frameworks, the members recognize that by pooling their collective influence, they can effectively address some of the greatest challenges facing the world.

At the G-8 meetings, leaders discuss a broad range of topics, including poverty alleviation, climate change, the promotion of peace and democracy, and the protection of civil liberties. As part of these discussions, the G-8 has developed plans such as the Abnasi Initiative, which focuses on empowering women and girls in developing countries by providing them with access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities. Additionally, the G-8 works to ensure that economic growth and development is distributed in a fair and equitable manner, and has worked to promote economic development in Africa.

The G-7/G-8 meetings are also used to facilitate dialogue between the countries. These meetings create an opportunity for leaders from each country to develop a collaborative understanding of issues, exchange ideas, and discuss interdependent policies. The G-7/G-8 process provides a platform for members to work together to create solutions rather than engage in conflictual debates.

The G-7/G-8 does not have direct legislative authority, but its actions can influence global policy. Through its influence on international politics and economy, the G-7/G-8 often creates a framework that other countries and organizations may draw upon to develop policy. Furthermore, its coordination of collective action has allowed the organization to make profound impacts, such as establishing the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and the launch of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative.

Since its inception, the G-7/G-8 has been a critical platform for collaboration, dialogue and policy coordination at the international level. It is hoped that this critical forum will continue to serve as a source of leadership and collaboration as the world works to address global challenges.