The unexpected early departure of Roberto Azevêdo as director-general of the World Trade Organization has caused a flurry of interest in his replacement against a background of deep concern about the institution.
But despite criticism of the WTO’s muted role during the coronavirus crisis and the threats to its existence, those candidates showing an interest so far have emphasised judicious reform rather than radical change.
In interviews with the Financial Times, Kenya’s former trade minister Amina Mohamed and Peter Mandelson, the British former EU trade commissioner, both said a new director-general would have to convince the consensus-driven organisation of the need for reform, bridging gaps between the big members, especially China and the US.