December 4, 2024

WTO reappoints Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for a second term

The General Council of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreed by consensus, on November 29, to reappoint Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for a second four-year term, set to begin on September 1, 2025.

The reappointment process was initiated on October 8, 2024. With no additional nominations submitted by the 8 November deadline, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate. The process was conducted in a fully open and transparent manner, adhering to the WTO's "Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General".

During a special General Council meeting on November 28-29, 2024, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala outlined her forward-looking vision for the WTO. Following her presentation and a Q&A session with members, the Council formally endorsed her reappointment by consensus.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala first assumed office as Director-General on March 1, 2021, becoming the first woman and first African to lead the WTO. Her first term concludes on August 31, 2025. Her reappointment highlights the strong support for her efforts to enhance the WTO's relevance and capacity in addressing the evolving challenges of global trade.