The World Trade Organization (WTO) has confirmed that Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the current Director-General, is the only candidate for the organization’s top position, clearing the path for her likely reappointment. In a statement released on Saturday, the WTO noted that Okonjo-Iweala, who has expressed her willingness to serve a second four-year term, is now the sole contender after the nomination window closed without additional candidates.
The WTO formally launched the selection process on October 8, giving its member states until November 8 to submit nominations for the role. Petter Olberg, the chair of the WTO’s General Council, announced that the nomination period closed with only one candidate, Okonjo-Iweala, who had previously notified the council of her intention to continue in the role.
“Under the procedures for the appointment of Directors-General, I am required to communicate a consolidated list of candidatures received immediately after the nomination period closes,” Olberg stated, confirming that Okonjo-Iweala’s name was the only one on the list.
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The next steps in the selection process will soon be communicated, according to the WTO, as Okonjo-Iweala’s current term concludes on August 31, 2025. First appointed on February 15, 2021, Okonjo-Iweala broke new ground as the first African and first woman to lead the WTO.
Her bid for a second term gained momentum despite initial concerns following the recent U.S. election. Okonjo-Iweala’s initial appointment in 2021 faced opposition from the Trump administration, which supported South Korean candidate Yoo Myung-hee. However, following Trump’s election defeat, the Biden administration extended its support for Okonjo-Iweala, ultimately securing her leadership at the WTO.
As the WTO prepares for a potential second term under Okonjo-Iweala, expectations are high that she will continue to guide the organization through ongoing global trade challenges and reforms.
