SCO Bishkek Summit: 43% of World Population and 23% of Global Economy

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was established in 1996 as a regional security and economic partnership among former Soviet republics and neighboring states. Since its inception, the organization has grown to include eight member countries—China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Pakistan—along with several observer and dialogue partners.

The SCO now represents roughly 43 percent of the world’s population and accounts for about 23 percent of global GDP, underscoring its growing influence on international affairs. Its agenda spans counter‑terrorism, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange, while its security framework seeks to address cross‑border threats in Central Asia and beyond. The organization’s expansion reflects a broader shift toward multipolar governance in the post‑Cold War era.

As the SCO continues to deepen ties among its members, its role in shaping regional stability and economic integration remains a key focus for policymakers worldwide. The organization’s ability to mobilize such a significant share of the global population and economy positions it as a pivotal actor in future geopolitical and economic developments.