WTO Director-General Okonjo-Iweala Reappointed Amid Trump’s Trade Threats

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was reappointed as the WTO Director-General amid concerns over Donald Trump’s return to power. Her term aims to focus on rules-based trade and critical global issues but faces potential challenges from Trump’s anticipated trade policies, which may disrupt the WTO’s operational integrity.

On November 30, 2024, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was reappointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) for a second term. As the first female and first African to lead the organization, she expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Donald Trump, despite his past opposition to the WTO’s operations. Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment was expedited by consensus among the WTO’s 166 members, aiming to ensure her position ahead of Trump’s anticipated return to the presidency on January 20, 2025. She emphasized the necessity for rules-based global trade and the importance of addressing critical issues such as climate change and health within the WTO framework.

Notably, Okonjo-Iweala’s tenure is poised to face challenges as Trump has previously threatened significant changes to trade policies and sought to undermine the WTO’s authority. Observers conveyed concerns about Trump’s potential to escalate trade conflicts, termed a “festival of tariffs,” beginning as soon as he resumes office. Okonjo-Iweala, while optimistic, acknowledged that the situation requires careful management to avoid detrimental trade disputes that could disrupt the global trading system.

In recent years, global trade has faced intense scrutiny, particularly during Donald Trump’s presidency (2017-2021), when his administration adopted a confrontational stance towards international agreements and institutions. The WTO, tasked with overseeing global trade rules, suffered setbacks due to Trump’s actions, including the collapse of its dispute settlement system following the United States’ blockade on appointing judges. Therefore, Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment holds significant importance as she endeavors to revitalize international trade governance amidst emerging challenges and a shifting political landscape. The anticipation surrounding Trump’s potential return raises further questions about the future of the WTO’s operations.

In conclusion, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment as WTO Director-General marks a pivotal moment for global trade, allowing her to push for reforms and tackle pressing issues at a time when international cooperation is critical. Her proactive stance to engage with Donald Trump is indicative of her commitment to maintaining a rules-based system in the face of potential trade challenges. The upcoming term promises to be difficult but essential for safeguarding the integrity of global trade systems.

Original Source: jordantimes.com