Since its inception in 2010, the World Trade Organization (WTO) Chairs Programme has been aiding academic institutions in trade-related research, curriculum development, and policy outreach. In a recent development, five new universities from the Dominican Republic, Nigeria, Qatar, Togo, and Vanuatu have joined the programme, expanding the network to 39 Chairs globally.
At the conference's opening session, WTO Deputy Director-General Zhang expressed gratitude to the programme's donors—France, Austria, and the Republic of Korea—and highlighted its role in influencing trade policymaking and fostering multilateral cooperation. "The WTO Chairs Programme is a powerful platform for empowering academic institutions in developing countries to elevate the role of academia in driving policy change and creating multilateral cooperation between the different stakeholders involved in international trade," he stated.
France's Permanent Representative to the WTO, Emmanuelle Ivanov-Durand underscored the value of academic research: "Through research, we don't just observe. We test, we compare, we adapt. And above all, we look together for concrete solutions to complex problems."
Austria's Permanent Representative to the WTO Ambassador Desirée Schweitzer emphasized technical assistance's importance: "Through capacity-building initiatives such as the Chairs Programme, members can engage in rigorous analysis and make informed decisions on issues of trade."
Ambassador Sung-yo Choi from Korea conveyed hope for WCP's continued growth amid new challenges facing multilateralism: "Korea remains firmly committed to supporting the values and vision this programme represents."
During a three-day conference focusing on topics for MC14 like digital trade and fisheries subsidies among others, participants discussed collaboration within WCP to bolster multilateral efforts.
In a fireside chat with Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, discussions revolved around global trade challenges and opportunities for developing economies. DG Okonjo-Iweala called on Chairs to rally domestic business support: "The WTO is beyond tariffs... Many criticisms leveled at the WTO are legitimate... WCP Chairs can help identify potential solutions."
Further details about the WTO Chairs Programme can be accessed online.