COVID-19: WTO cites vaccine rollout as top priority for Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

In a year marked by unprecedented global challenges, the World Trade Organization (WTO) has turned to its first female and African director general, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to lead the charge in addressing critical issues facing global trade. Last week, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stepped into her role with remarkable energy and determination, focusing her efforts on tackling the pressing issue of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the vaccine rollout taking center stage, she is spearheading efforts to ensure the smooth functioning of supply chains essential for the production and distribution of life-saving vaccines. Her goal is to minimize export restrictions and trade barriers that hinder the flow of materials necessary for vaccine manufacturing. As she delves into this crucial task, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala is also working on negotiating an agreement to regulate trade-distorting fishing subsidies and address the issue of overfishing, which is depleting global fishing stocks. Additionally, she is championing WTO reform initiatives, including enhancing dispute settlement mechanisms, promoting e-commerce rules, supporting small businesses and women's participation in trade, and addressing the intersection of trade and climate change. The WTO's spokesperson, Keith Rockwell, emphasized that Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has hit the ground running, demonstrating a strong commitment to tackling complex trade challenges. While the WTO has faced criticism in recent years over the perceived diminishing relevance of the organization, Rockwell expressed confidence in a forthcoming 'renaissance' of the WTO under Dr. Okonjo-Iweala's leadership. He underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global problems such as the pandemic, climate change, and fisheries sustainability. Despite past challenges, including the reluctance of some key member states like the U.S. under the Trump administration to fully engage with the WTO, Rockwell noted a shift towards a more multilateral approach under the current U.S. administration led by President Biden. The lifting of trade barriers and tariff disputes between the U.S. and the European Union exemplify a renewed commitment to multilateralism. Regarding Dr. Okonjo-Iweala's influence within the WTO, Rockwell clarified that while the director general does not make decisions unilaterally, she plays a pivotal role in shaping discussions, setting agendas, and facilitating consensus among the diverse member states of the organization. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala's convening power, coupled with her solution-oriented approach and determination to drive results, positions her as a catalyst for meaningful change within the WTO. However, she faces formidable challenges in her day-to-day operations, given the ongoing trade tensions exacerbated by the pandemic, disruptions in global supply chains, and the need to revitalize the WTO's dispute settlement system. The delay in appointing a new director general due to the U.S. hold under the previous administration has also impacted the organization's ability to address critical issues promptly. Looking ahead, the WTO aims to host its ministerial conference in Geneva later this year after postponing the event in 2020 due to the pandemic. The conference may include a virtual component to accommodate global health and safety considerations. One of the key topics on the agenda is the proposed intellectual property waiver championed by South Africa and India to promote equitable access to vaccines. While opinions within the WTO membership vary on this issue, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala advocates for ramping up vaccine production through technology transfer and collaboration with pharmaceutical companies. Her proactive engagement with industry leaders and emphasis on finding innovative solutions underscore her commitment to addressing the pressing need for widespread vaccine distribution. As the WTO navigates the complex terrain of global trade challenges, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala's leadership shines as a beacon of hope in a turbulent world striving for equitable solutions and sustainable progress.