Part of Routledge's leading "Global Institutions Series", this book is a highly accessible, up-to-date introduction to the history, present and future of he G7/8 summits, exploring the role that the G8 plays and will play in global governance. Hugo Dobson examines the G8 and its position in global governance in terms of its relationship to the more formal and truly institutionalized mechanisms of global governance: the United Nations, World Bank and World Trade Organization. Divided into six informative chapters, this volume provides an innovative contribution to the dynamics of global governance and is especially relevant to promoting this area of investigation in the future. It includes: history and development of the summit; organization and functioning; perspectives of member states; achievements and failures; criticisms and challenges and future directions; draws upon existing literature in order to provide the reader with a single more concise point-of entry; and acts as a guide to the broader field of research and provides suggested further reading. "The Group of 7/8" is a core introductory guide and an essential purchase for students and professionals alike in the field of international relations.