Just-in-time reporting from WTO Public Forum 2016

The 2016 World Trade Organization (WTO) Public Forum is around the corner. Held under the theme ‘Inclusive Trade’, the forum will discuss how new technologies have transformed commerce and have given a boost to trade growth.

E-commerce will be one of the key topics under discussion, with a special focus on innovation for start-ups and SMEs, narrowing the digital divide, and empowering women. It is one of the most anticipated events this autumn, and it will be held next week, from Tuesday, 27th to Thursday, 29th September, at the WTO headquarters in Geneva.

With a forum packed with parallel sessions, DiploFoundation and the Geneva Internet Platform will provide just-in-time reporting to allow digital policy practitioners to be on top of the developments and discussions. A team of rapporteurs will be on the spot to cover the sessions related to digital technology and e-commerce; reports will be available shortly after the sessions on a dedicated page hosted by the GIP Digital Watch observatory. Live reporting will also be available on @GenevaGIP and via the GIP’s Facebook page.

Join our discussion on inclusive digital trade

In parallel, Diplo and the GIP will host a special session on Inclusive Digital Trade and Sustainable Development: Exploring Creative Solutions and Ways Forward. The session will take place on Thursday, 29th September, at the WTO premises, Room B, from 13:00 to 14:30 CEST (11:00 – 12:30 UTC). It will explore the avenues for meaningful involvement, and concrete actions for achieving inclusive digital trade, with the participation of SMEs and start-ups, as well as Internet economy and sustainable development experts.