The WTO Trade and Gender Office has unveiled its inaugural edition of the Trade for Women Bulletin, a groundbreaking publication dedicated to advancing gender equality in global trade. This bulletin, launched in Fall 2024, highlights innovative initiatives, tools, and success stories from around the world, emphasizing the crucial role of trade in empowering women and fostering inclusive economic growth.
In her editorial, Anoush der Boghossian, Head of the WTO Trade and Gender Office, reflects on the progress made in integrating gender perspectives into trade policies. She highlights the Abu Dhabi Ministerial Declaration of 2024 as a milestone that institutionalizes the WTO’s commitment to gender equality in trade.The bulletin features global success stories, including:
Compendium of Financial Inclusion Initiatives: A new WTO tool to help women-led businesses overcome financial barriers.
Colombia’s “Ella Exporta a África” Initiative: Supporting women entrepreneurs in expanding to African markets.
Australia’s Investing in Women Program: Driving gender-responsive economic growth across Southeast Asia.
Among the featured voices is Brendan Chukwuebuka Ugwu, founder of the Young African Policy Research Hub (YAPORH) and participant in the WTO Youth Talent Incubator Programme. Brendan shared how the program has deepened his understanding of trade and gender issues, equipping him with the tools to champion gender-sensitive policies.
“This programme has provided invaluable mentorship and insights, empowering me to advocate for equitable trade policies that benefit women and youth in Africa and globally,” Brendan remarked.
The bulletin also introduces insights from the WTO Youth Talent Incubator Programme and sets the stage for the World Trade Congress on Gender in June 2025.
Click below to download the full bulletin and explore how trade can drive gender equality worldwide.