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GENEVA — World Trade Organization (WTO) members on Friday officially unanimously approved Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for a second four-year term as Director-General, extending her leadership through 2029.
The decision, which was made at WTO special General Council meeting, underscores broad support for Okonjo-Iweala’s vision of trade as a tool for global economic growth and resilience.
The General Council of the WTO stated that the reappointment will take effect on September 1, 2025.
The Council said it agreed by consensus to reappoint Okonjo-Iweala as DG for a second four-year term, stressing that the decision reflects broad recognition of her exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future of the WTO.
It further explained that the reappointment process, initiated on October 8, 2024, was overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council.
“With no additional nominations submitted by the November 8 deadline, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate. The process was conducted in a fully open and transparent manner, adhering to the WTO’s ‘Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General’ (WT/L/509).
“During a special General Council meeting on November 28-29, 2024, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala outlined her forward-looking vision for the WTO. Following her presentation and a Q&A session with members, the Council formally endorsed her reappointment by consensus.”
“The General Council commends Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for her outstanding leadership during her first term. Amid significant global economic challenges, she strengthened the WTO’s ability to support its members and set a forward-looking agenda for the organization. Her leadership was instrumental in securing meaningful outcomes at pivotal moments, including the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences (MC12 and MC13), where major milestones were achieved.”
Her first term concludes on August 31, 2025.
In her acceptance statement on Friday, Okonjo-Iweala, who made history in 2021 as the WTO’s first African and female leader, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her.
“I am deeply honored by the trust and support of the WTO General Council and its 166 Members,” she said.
“It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term.”
Her reappointment comes at a time when the WTO faces challenges, including the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and debates over trade policies in a rapidly shifting global economy.
During her tenure, Okonjo-Iweala has pushed for greater inclusivity in trade negotiations, reforms to streamline dispute settlements, and measures to address global crises, such as supply chain disruptions and vaccine equity.
“She has proven to be a consensus builder during some of the WTO’s most difficult times,” said Zhang Xiangchen, a Deputy Director-General of the WTO.
“Her leadership has been pivotal in restoring the organization’s relevance on the global stage.”
Looking ahead to her second term, which begins on September 1, 2025, Okonjo-Iweala pledged to continue delivering tangible results for WTO members and citizens worldwide.
“By promoting trade as a driver of economic growth and resilience, the WTO will continue to provide a collaborative platform for Members to address shared global challenges,” she asserted.
“I am deeply honoured by the trust and support of the WTO General Council and its 166 Members. It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term.
“In recent years, the WTO has played a vital role in helping Members navigate pressing global challenges, including the pandemic, conflict, and heightened geopolitical tensions. I commend Members for their hard work and determination in achieving progress despite unprecedented levels of uncertainty and rapid economic shifts.
“As we look ahead, I remain firmly committed to delivering results that matter—results that ultimately improve the lives of people around the world. By promoting trade as a driver of economic growth and resilience, the WTO will continue to provide a collaborative platform for Members to address shared global challenges.
“I am deeply committed to working alongside the talented and dedicated staff of the WTO to build a more inclusive, equitable, and rules-based multilateral trading system that benefits all,” She concluded.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
