The World Trade Organization (WTO) has released the provisional programme for its 2025 Public Forum, which will feature 77 sessions focused on the impact of digital advancements on international trade and global connectivity. The sessions are set to cover topics such as innovation and cooperation in the evolving trading system.
According to the WTO, civil society groups will organize 37% of the sessions, while WTO members will lead 27%. The business community is responsible for 17%, with the WTO Secretariat handling 3%, and other stakeholders organizing the remaining 16%.
The Public Forum serves as a platform for stakeholders worldwide—including representatives from civil society, academia, business, government, international organizations, and media—to discuss current trends in global trade. Each year, over 2,000 participants attend this event.
Online registration for the in-person forum is open until August 22, 2025. There is no fee to participate; however, attendees must cover their own travel and accommodation expenses. Last-minute or on-site registrations will not be accepted.
“The Public Forum is the WTO’s largest outreach event, providing a unique platform for interested stakeholders from around the world to discuss the latest developments in global trade and to propose ways of enhancing the multilateral trading system. The event attracts over 2,000 representatives each year from civil society, academia, business, government, international organisations and the media,” according to information provided by organizers.
Further details about previous forums can be found at https://www.wto.org/english/forums_e/public_forum_e/public_forum_e.htm. Additional information about this year's event is available at https://www.wto.org/english/forums_e/public_forum25_e/public_forum25_e.htm.
Questions regarding participation can be directed to pf25@wto.org.