WTO Considers Fast-Tracking Chief's Reappointment Before Trump Presidency
The World Trade Organization is set to hold a special meeting to decide on reappointing Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General, amidst concerns over potential U.S. opposition.
- Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is the sole candidate for reappointment at the WTO, with her current term ending in August 2025.
- The WTO's General Council will meet on November 28-29 to discuss and potentially decide on her reappointment.
- Concerns arise that the lengthy reappointment process could allow incoming U.S. President Donald Trump's administration to oppose Okonjo-Iweala's candidacy.
- Okonjo-Iweala aims to address unfinished business from her first term, including new rules on fishing subsidies and resolving issues with the WTO's appeals court.
- Trump's previous administration opposed her first term, and his upcoming presidency may bring a challenging period for international trade relations.