It is clear that the multilateral trading system is in crisis, as indicated by the results—or lack thereof—of the last WTO Ministerial conference. While some major players are opting for economic nationalism, and while the trade negotiation track is stalling, how can we ensure that the achievement of the ambitious goals set in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is not held back?
In this context, business as usual is not an option. In today’s global, interconnected, deregulated, and fast changing environment, the consequences of the status quo would be detrimental, in particular for the most vulnerable countries. What role can the United Nations and its Member States play in finding consensus on trade and development issues? Where does the international trade community go from here, at this uncertain time for multilateralism?

If you want more information on this event, you can consult the event’s program, enclosed to this announcement.