This archive report was first published on 16 July 2020.
As the World Trade Organization (WTO) begins the vetting process for its next leader, candidates from eight countries have urged members to reach a decision quickly. The nominations, which include three women and three African candidates, come as the organization faces a 'deep crisis' due to intensifying global trade tensions and a coronavirus-induced decline in global trade.
Jesus Seade, a senior trade official in Mexico, described the situation as a 'deep crisis' and urged a quick decision, saying 'This needs to be done as quick as possible.' He also rejected the idea of delaying the decision until after the U.S. presidential election in November, citing criticism of the WTO across the political spectrum in Washington.
Nigeria's candidate, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, also expressed hope for a quick decision, saying the world was at an 'uncertain juncture' due to the pandemic. She urged the U.S. to work with the WTO on reform and not to leave the organization.
Egypt's candidate, Hamid Mamdouh, identified the top challenge facing the WTO as a 'fading sense of common purpose' and vowed to 'immediately revive the negotiating function of the organisation.' He also called on Beijing and Washington to resolve their trade disputes within the multilateral body.
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