The first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, stands unopposed in her bid for a second term as director-general, the WTO chair announced on Saturday.
Okonjo-Iweala, aged 70, announced in September her intention to pursue another term, with her current term set to expire in August 2025. Her initial appointment in March 2021 had been delayed for months due to opposition from then-U.S. President Donald Trump, who backed a South Korean candidate. This block was lifted once Joe Biden took office, clearing the way for her confirmation.
WTO Chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, confirmed in a statement that “no further nominations for the position” were submitted by Friday’s deadline, making Okonjo-Iweala “the only candidate for the role.”
As director-general, she has worked to revitalize the WTO, an organization that has often struggled to reach consensus among its 166 member countries. Known for her strong will and determination, Okonjo-Iweala presented herself as someone capable of unifying the organization and driving results.
Her first term has been marked by a commitment to reforming the WTO’s processes and invigorating global trade discussions, positioning the organization to better address modern economic challenges.
