The Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has announced her intention to seek a second term as the head of the trade body.
In an interview with Reuters on Monday, Okonjo-Iweala expressed her desire to tackle “unfinished business” from her first term.
Okonjo-Iweala, who made history as the first female and African Director-General when she assumed the role in March 2021, will see her current term conclude on August 31, 2025.
Reflecting on her tenure, she stated, “I would like to be part of this chapter of the WTO story, and I stand ready to compete for the position,” indicating her commitment to continue leading the organization.
In her potential second term, Okonjo-Iweala aims to address several key priorities. These include finalizing a global agreement to end fisheries subsidies, advancing global agriculture negotiations, reforming the WTO’s struggling dispute resolution system, and promoting the decarbonization of trade.
She has until the end of November to make an official decision about reapplying. The early initiative, which began in July, was partly motivated by the need to secure her position before the U.S. presidential election.
This preemptive move follows the African-led push for her reappointment and the previous hurdles she faced.
During the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump, Okonjo-Iweala’s appointment was blocked, with Trump criticizing the WTO.
However, she received U.S. support once President Joe Biden took office. When asked about the potential impact of a possible re-election of Trump on her bid, Okonjo-Iweala responded, “I don’t focus on that because I have no control.”
Should no other candidates emerge and if member states show their support, Okonjo-Iweala could secure her position under the WTO’s consensus rules.
