South Africa Boosts Security for G20 Summit Amid Protest Threats

Trump has withdrawn U.S. participation from the G20 summit, citing alleged abuses against white farmers and criticizing South Africa’s foreign policy.

People walk in front a G20 banner, as the country prepares to host the G20 Summit on Nov. 22-23, in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Nov. 18, 2025. Siphiwe Sibeko /Reuters

South Africa is ramping up security ahead of the G20 summit in Johannesburg this weekend, deploying thousands of police officers and preparing for large-scale protests as the city gets ready to host world leaders.

Around 3,500 additional police officers are being deployed, and the army is on standby under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, responsible for the security of all major events, as Johannesburg prepares to host global leaders for the 2025 G20 Summit on Nov. 22 and Nov. 23.