World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has announced her intention to pursue a second four-year term. At 70, she made history in 2021 as the first woman and African to lead the organization, and she’s now aiming to build on her initial successes.
“I’m eager to continue this chapter in the WTO’s journey,” Okonjo-Iweala said, expressing her desire to stay focused on key issues like resolving “unfinished business.” She highlighted priorities such as completing fisheries subsidy reforms, advancing agricultural trade talks, and fixing the WTO’s dispute resolution system, which has been weakened in recent years.
Her decision to seek reappointment comes ahead of schedule, with many African nations backing the move to ensure momentum and progress on critical global trade reforms. The early start to this process is seen as a strategic effort, particularly with the upcoming U.S. elections, as it seeks to secure her reappointment before any political shifts could occur.
By November, she will need to officially submit her candidacy, but if no other contenders arise, and if the WTO’s 164 members agree, she could be reappointed by consensus. Okonjo-Iweala’s first term faced challenges, notably from the Trump administration, which blocked her initial appointment. However, she gained support from President Biden in 2021, allowing her to take the helm of the WTO.
When asked about how a potential Trump return to the presidency might affect her future, she downplayed concerns, focusing instead on what she can control.
During her first term, Okonjo-Iweala made significant strides, including brokering a historic deal to reduce harmful fishing subsidies. Despite this, her work has faced hurdles, particularly around ongoing negotiations. Opposition from countries like India has delayed progress on subsequent fishing agreements.
She acknowledged the complexity of her role, saying, “It’s a tough job, no doubt, but it’s one that gets me up in the morning.” One of the major challenges she continues to face is restoring the WTO’s ability to enforce rules among its members, a function that has been paralyzed since the Trump administration blocked key appointments. Talks are underway in Washington to potentially reform this system, but progress remains slow.
As Okonjo-Iweala sets her sights on a second term, her focus will be on overcoming these obstacles and driving forward the global trade reforms she’s worked hard to achieve.
