The Chair of the General Council has announced a meeting to discuss the selection of the next Director-General. This decision follows the revelation on November 9 that no other candidates had come forward by the November 8 nomination deadline, apart from the current Director-General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
Ambassador Ølberg communicated to members that he plans to hold a special formal meeting of the General Council on November 28 and 29. This approach aligns with past practices when an incumbent was the sole candidate for reappointment.
The first day of this meeting will feature a presentation by DG Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala outlining her vision for the World Trade Organization (WTO), followed by a session where members can ask questions. The second day is reserved for members to make a decision regarding the appointment of the next Director-General.
The communication from Ambassador Ølberg to WTO members can be accessed online.
On October 8, the WTO began its process for appointing a new Director-General, allowing nominations until November 8. The current term of DG Okonjo-Iweala concludes on August 31, 2025.