WTO Public Forum 2014

A total of 71 sessions will take place at the 2014 WTO Public Forum. Entitled “Why Trade Matters to Everyone”, the three-day Forum will focus from 1 to 3 October on the human story behind trade, giving participants an opportunity to discuss the impact of trade on jobs and consumers and trade in Africa.

The sessions will be organized by a wide range of participants, including businesses, academia, media, law firms, non-governmental organizations and international organizations. Topics for debate include how trade can help foster growth and jobs, how best to balance free trade and consumer protection, and to what extent Africa benefits from open trade. Out of the 71 sessions, 23 will be dedicated to trade and Africa, the regional focus of this year’s Forum.

In the opening debate on 1 October, WTO Director-General Roberto Azevêdo will be joined by heads of international agencies, ministers and trade experts to discuss the social and economic opportunities created by trade in a debate entitled “Why trade matters to everyone”

In the second plenary debate, on 2 October, entitled “What trade means for Africa”, high-level speakers will exchange views on how trade can play a role in development and poverty alleviation.

You can find more information here